Scientists of the Institute of Science of the Tokyo and Biological Sciences, led by Fatima Li-Hyu and Associate Professor Sean McLlin, have used the small amount of oxygen emitted by iron and photoynetic cyanobacteria in accordance with the old oceans. This discovery sheds light on the transition phase when the content of the photosynthesis became new fuel in life. The study was published in the magazine "Minds and Environments" (M & E).
The so-called big oxidation event took place approximately 2.3 billion years ago, when cyanobacteries began to actively produce oxygen through photosynthesis. This has changed the composition of the atmosphere and biosphere, making it possible for animals and plants possible. However, oxygen poses a threat to the old anaerobic organisms.
Researchers have recreated the chemical conditions of that time, studying five hot springs in Japan (Tokyo, Akita and Aomoria). These sources are unusual. Their water contains a high concentration of solved iron (FE²⁺) and less oxygen. These conditions are typical of the old oceans before they get rich in oxygen.
In four sources, microwophilic iron oxidating bacteria were dominated, which "nourishes" iron, turned it into iron (FE³⁺). Photosynthetic cyanobacteras were also present, although smaller quantities. Only one source had different composition. There were a different metabolic bacteria.
Metagenomic analysis allowed to collect more than 200 bacterial genomes. Scientists found out that some microorganisms used iron and oxygen, while others performed the main processes of carbon, nitrogen and even sulfur cycles. The last discovery surprised researchers. Sources did not contain almost sulfur, but the found genes showed the presence of a "hidden" sulfur cycle.
This work not only reveals the secrets of the country's history, but also expands the scope of foreign life. The planets with low-level oxygen oceans and oxygen can be residential due to such bacterial strategies.
Translation of: Euromedia24.com
