Bacteria as Blacksmiths: The Metallurgical Wonders of Microorganisms
Scientific India|November - December 2023
In the world of microbiology bacteria often take center stage as remarkable and versatile organisms.
Ramar Marimuthu
Bacteria as Blacksmiths: The Metallurgical Wonders of Microorganisms

While they are frequently associated with diseases and infections there is a hidden side to these tiny creatures that is nothing short of awe inspiring. Bacteria can be likened to blacksmiths as they possess the remarkable ability to shape and work with metals a process known as biomineralization. This explores the fascinating world of bacteria as blacksmiths delving into their pivotal role in metallurgy, environmental remediation and scientific advancement.

The Art of Biomineralization

Biomineralization is a process by which living organisms, including bacteria, orchestrate the formation and deposition of minerals. Bacteria have evolved to manipulate various metals and metalloids transforming them into structures that are either beneficial to themselves or crucial for broader ecosystem functions. Some key examples of bacterial biomineralization include: Iron Bacteria and Ferric Oxide Formation: Iron bacteria are renowned for their ability to metabolize iron and produce ferric oxide (rust) as a metabolic byproduct. This process not only aids the bacteria in energy production but also contributes to the formation of iron rich deposits in natural environments.

Manganese Oxide Formation: Manganese oxidizing bacteria facilitate the precipitation of manganese oxides a process that plays a significant role in the removal of heavy metals and the  cycling of manganese in aquatic ecosystems. Sulfur Bacteria and Pyrite Formation: Certain sulfur bacteria can participate in the formation of pyrite also known as "fool's gold." This has implications for both geochemical processes and ore formation.

Uranium Biomineralization: Bacteria have been found to immobilize uranium through the biomineralization of uranyl phosphate compounds offering potential solutions for the remediation of uranium contaminated environments.

Environmental Remediation

この記事は Scientific India の November - December 2023 版に掲載されています。

7 日間の Magzter GOLD 無料トライアルを開始して、何千もの厳選されたプレミアム ストーリー、9,000 以上の雑誌や新聞にアクセスしてください。

この記事は Scientific India の November - December 2023 版に掲載されています。

7 日間の Magzter GOLD 無料トライアルを開始して、何千もの厳選されたプレミアム ストーリー、9,000 以上の雑誌や新聞にアクセスしてください。

SCIENTIFIC INDIAのその他の記事すべて表示
Krishi Vigyan Kendras: Working for Farmer's Welfare
Scientific India

Krishi Vigyan Kendras: Working for Farmer's Welfare

Krishi Vigyan Kendras (Farm Science Centres) are the District level institution serving as an agriculture knowledge resource & capacity development centre which plays indispensable role in front line extension regarding agriculture system in scientific way.

time-read
4 分  |
July-August 2024
Sixth generation Computer: The future computing technology
Scientific India

Sixth generation Computer: The future computing technology

We are in a transition towards a digital world, where everything will be dealt with in digital format.

time-read
4 分  |
July-August 2024
Massive Underground Water Reservoir Found on Mars
Scientific India

Massive Underground Water Reservoir Found on Mars

Scientists have discovered a reservoir of liquid water on Mars deep in the rocky outer crust of the planet.

time-read
1 min  |
July-August 2024
Tofu: The Budget-Friendly Superfood for Vegetarians
Scientific India

Tofu: The Budget-Friendly Superfood for Vegetarians

Tofu is a plant-based protein-rich food item that can be easily prepared at the household level with limited resources.

time-read
3 分  |
July-August 2024
Exploring the Marvels of Carbon Quantum Dots: A Leap into the Future of Nanotechnology
Scientific India

Exploring the Marvels of Carbon Quantum Dots: A Leap into the Future of Nanotechnology

In the ever-changing world of nanotechnology, carbon quantum dots (CQDs) have emerged as super tiny but incredibly powerful entities that have massive potential in various fields.

time-read
2 分  |
July-August 2024
Sniffing Cancer- Honeybee, a potential cancer detector?
Scientific India

Sniffing Cancer- Honeybee, a potential cancer detector?

Imagine harnessing the super-sense of a honeybee to sniff out lung cancer.

time-read
3 分  |
July-August 2024
From Ancient Roots to Modern Remedies: The Timeless Value of Turkey Berry in Nature's Healing Arsena
Scientific India

From Ancient Roots to Modern Remedies: The Timeless Value of Turkey Berry in Nature's Healing Arsena

The Timeless Value of Turkey Berry in Traditional and Modern Medicine

time-read
7 分  |
July-August 2024
Massive biomolecular shifts occur in our 40s and 60s
Scientific India

Massive biomolecular shifts occur in our 40s and 60s

If it's ever felt like everything in your body is breaking down at once, that might not be your imagination.

time-read
3 分  |
July-August 2024
Pectin: An Esteemed Plant-Derived Molecule in the Food Industry
Scientific India

Pectin: An Esteemed Plant-Derived Molecule in the Food Industry

This article provides a concise overview of the significance of pectin, a plant-derived molecule, in the food industry.

time-read
8 分  |
July-August 2024
Skip the Antibacterial Soap: Use Plain Soap and Water
Scientific India

Skip the Antibacterial Soap: Use Plain Soap and Water

When you buy soaps and body washes, do you reach for products labeled \"antibacterial\" hoping they'll keep your family safer? Do you think those products will lower your risk of getting sick, spreading germs or being infected? According to the U.S.

time-read
2 分  |
July-August 2024