Hydrocarbon-Eating Microbes Mean Oil Was An Ancient Energy Source Too

Wednesday, September 10, 2008 - 08:52 in Earth & Climate

Microbes that break down oil and petroleum are more diverse than we thought, suggesting hydrocarbons were used as an energy source early in Earth's history, according to a presentation at the Society for General Microbiology's Autumn meeting. These microbes can change the composition of oil and natural gas and can even control the release of some greenhouse gases. Understanding the role of microbes in consuming hydrocarbons may therefore help us access their role in the natural control of climate change. Read More...

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