Extremeophiles and Extreme Environments

Found: A Hyperthermophilic Nitrogen Fixer

By Keith Cowing
January 16, 2007

Researchers from NAI’s Carnegie Institution of Washington Team have published in Science their findings of a novel archaeon who’s ability to fix nitrogen at 92 degrees Celcius has officially increased the upper limit of biological nitrogen fixation by 28 degrees Celcius. The hyperthermophilic methanogen was isolated from a hydrothermal vent. Thier findings could reveal a broader range of conditions for life in the subseafloor biosphere. [Source: NAI Newsletter]

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