Bacteria Form 'Herds' to Survive Predators and Store Carbon

Topic: Biology

Scientists at Queen Mary University of London discovered that tiny photosynthetic bacteria band together into protective groups when attacked by predators. This behavior helps explain why cyanobacteria invest energy in forming flocs, which can affect how carbon is stored in the world's waters.

Researchers at Queen Mary University of London found that tiny photosynthetic bacteria called cyanobacteria form 'herds' to protect themselves from predators.

The team studied interactions between the cyanobacterium Synechocystis and Pseudomonas aeruginosa, a bacterium commonly found in soil and freshwater. They discovered that when the predator attacks individual cyanobacterial cells, the bacteria quickly come together into dense groups surrounded by a protective layer of slime.

This behavior is an evolved defense mechanism that helps the bacteria survive. The researchers also found that predators grew more successfully when attacking mutant cyanobacteria that couldn't form these protective clumps.

The study's findings have important implications for our understanding of the global carbon cycle. When cyanobacteria form dense groups, they are more likely to sink, carrying carbon absorbed through photosynthesis into deeper waters where it can remain stored for long periods.

Why It Matters

This discovery is crucial for India because it helps us understand how bacteria affect the environment and climate. By studying these tiny organisms, scientists can develop new strategies to mitigate the effects of climate change in our country.

Key Facts

• Scientists at Queen Mary University of London discovered that cyanobacteria form 'herds' to protect themselves from predators.
• The study found that predators grew more successfully when attacking mutant cyanobacteria that couldn't form protective clumps.
• Cyanobacteria can distinguish between 'self' and 'non-self' at the microscopic level, triggering a response to foreign bacteria.
• When cyanobacteria form dense groups, they are more likely to sink, carrying carbon absorbed through photosynthesis into deeper waters.
• The study's findings have important implications for our understanding of the global carbon cycle.

Key Terms

Photosynthetic

Capable of converting sunlight into energy

Flocs

Dense groups of bacteria or other microorganisms

Predators

Organisms that feed on other organisms

Implications

This discovery is crucial for India because it helps us understand how bacteria affect the environment and climate. By studying these tiny organisms, scientists can develop new strategies to mitigate the effects of climate change in our country.