![]() ![]() The new findings show that they are extremely active in their conversion of the organic matter that sinks down from above. Moreover, the bacteria do not survive only on a minimum of activity at the bottom of the trenches. This must require some very special cell membranes and enzymes.” ![]() We have now started a project that aims to uncover how the bacteria can survive under this enormous pressure. ”These are unique, specially adapted bacteria that live at the bottom of the Mariana Trench. Our findings from the Mariana Trench show that there are bacteria that feed on the dead algae and all the other organic matter that sinks down into the deep trenches and thus keep the carbon cycle running. The new discovery adds some nuances to this conception: As the water becomes deeper, the food source for the bacteria starts to disappear. ![]() The seabed in coastal areas, where food supplies are plentiful, is teeming with bacteria. Scientists would normally say that the deeper down the sea floor is, the fewer bacteria are to be found. Our discovery presents an important step towards an understanding of what happens to all the organic matter from dead fish and algae when it falls to the seabed.” The reason is that the trenches contain plenty of food for the bacteria to feed on. ”There is a lot more activity there than one would expect – and far more than in the immediate surroundings. Major Pacific trenches (1-10) and fracture zones (11-20): 1. ![]()
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