A metal-eating bacteria was accidentally discovered by the California Institute of Technology (Caltech) scientists after 100 years. According to Independent's latest report, many researchers theorized that this kind of bacteria that eats metal has already existed for over a century. However, there was not enough study to prove its existence.
Elusive Metal-Eating Bacteria Predicted Over a Century Ago Discovered in Lab Accident https://t.co/lopwCds0NI pic.twitter.com/2f5cmZzbN3 — Boris Rasonja (@brasonja) July 17, 2020
Once the pollutants are reduced, several key organisms will donate electrons to manganese oxide to reduce it, in the same way how humans use oxygen in the air.
"The bacteria we have discovered can produce it, thus, they enjoy a lifestyle that also serves to supply the other microbes with what they need to perform reactions that we consider to be beneficial and desirable," said Dr. Jared.The study may also help other researchers and scientists to understand manganese modules, which are usually found in the seafloor; marine researchers are already familiar with these round metallic balls, which can be as large as grapefruit.
These nodules are also found to line most of the oceans' bottom. Rare metals are usually found concentrated within the manganese nodules, attracting many mining companies to exploit and harvest them.
