A class of bacteria is making strides in the fight against climate change. How could it be that cyanobacteria can convert carbon dioxide to oxygen through photosynthesis? Can this class of bacteria create a new generation of biofuels? Today, we will look at a class of bacteria known as cyanobacteria.
Image from Public Domain
What Are Cyanobacteria?
Cyanobacteria are not a new form of bacteria. Many believe that this class of bacteria was formed before the start of the oxygenated atmosphere. This class of bacteria can convert carbon dioxide into oxygen. This offers the potential to reverse some of the effects of our highly polluted modern world. While this class may assist in this capacity, it is worth noting that this group poses a risk to the marine environment.
Cyanobacteria have the potential to convert carbon emissions back into oxygen. However, these bacteria pose the risk of releasing toxins into marine environments and freshwater. These bacteria form in oceans, freshwater, estuaries, and many other bodies of water. Their presence has the potential to change entire ecosystems.
Cyanotoxin Risk to Marine Life
Cyanotoxins can cause loss of membrane integrity, compromise mitotic activity, and improper cell proliferation. Marine animals that inhabit the environment where floras of cyanobacteria are. Risk of being poisoned by the toxins present in the environment.
Blooms of Cyanobacteria release toxins that pollute water supplies. This has the potential to ruin water supplies that are used by towns and cities. Not only is this a problem for the aquatic ecosystem, but it can make supplying cities with water even more complicated.
Cyanobacteria Blooms | No Cyanobacteria Blooms |
Image by Tannock
Could Cyanobacteria Offer a New Energy Source?
As time progresses, scientists and engineers need to be on the lookout for new and cleaner forms of energy. Cyanobacteria have the potential to offer this resource that scientists are seeking. These microbes release biofuel byproducts during their usual process of converting carbon dioxide to oxygen. Is using cyanobacteria to protect the environment from destruction worth the risk?
Sources
Tannock, Simon. “Blue-Green Algae Blooms - Say Good-Bye.” AlgaEnviro, 28 May 2019, algaenviro.com.au/blue-green-algae-blooms-say-good-bye/.
Public Domain Images
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