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Microbial Mining And Manufacturing2900 Million Years Ago
Bacteria modify the global mineral cycle in two important ways: they induce nearby minerals to precipitate (settle out of solution), and they internally manufacture minerals. Bacteria swimming in a river help precipitate the great gold deposits of South Africa. Today, these wee wonders head for the mines of Russia. Miners pump microbes and water into thin or hard-to-reach veins.
Initial research indicates that microbes biologically induce over 27 kinds of minerals. Which minerals these versatile fellows form depends upon their environment and their own genetic capabilities.
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Top and Bottom: Metal makers do their thing. These bacteria have precipitated manganese dioxide minerals out of solution. (Photographs by Lynn Margulis) |
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