Microbe - Metal Interactions and Mineral Deposition at Hydrothermal Vents

摘要

To develop molecular biological approaches for use in environmental science usingRibulose 1,5-bisphosphate carboxylase (RubisCo) genes as probes for autotrophy. To understand the Mn cycle and its interrelationships with other biological and geochemical processes in the oceans through field studies and modeling of manganese transformations. Accomplishments (see attached articles for detailed description): Analyzed and modeled Mn scavenging and oxidation at hydrothermal vent and in vent plumes. Cloned and sequenced a novel type of RubisCo from a marine manganese (11) oxidizer. Developed gene probes for RubisCo large subunit genes from different autotrophic types and field tested them in a well-defined stratified water column environment (Saanich Inlet, BC).