This International Microbiology review article discusses possible ways to study cryptoendolithic (orgamisms living within pores of a rock) life in Antarctica using microscopy and how these studies may indicate biotic formation of magnetite chains found in Martian meteorite ALH84001. They propose that they have found decomposed remains of dead magnetite-forming bacteria suspended in carbonate-rich fluid, but indicate that further study is required. The article features photomicrographs of endolithic (rock-dwelling) microbes found in Antarctica.
This resource is referenced here:Subject:
Biology:Biogeochemistry,
Ecology:Habitats:Within Rock,
Biology:Astrobiology,
Microbiology,
Geoscience:Geology:Mineralogy:Biomineralogy,
Biology:Microbiology:Methods of Microbiology :Microscopy
Resource Type:
Scientific Resources:Overview/Reference Work
Grade Level: College Upper (15-16), Graduate/Professional, College Lower (13-14)
Extreme Environments: Extremely Cold
Theme:
Teach the Earth:Course Topics:Mineralogy,
Ecology,
Biogeoscience
Keywords: Antarctica, Biomarkers, Cryptoendoliths, Lithobionts, Ross Desert, Microbial fossils, endolith
