Microbiology
Latest about Microbiology
Hidden 'biosphere' of extreme microbes discovered 13 feet below Atacama Desert is deepest found there to date
By Sascha Pare published
Researchers have found microbes thriving 13 feet beneath the scorched surface of Chile's Atacama Desert, marking the deepest discovery of microbial life in the region to date.
Scientists discover once-in-a-billion-year event — 2 lifeforms merging to create a new cell part
By Sascha Pare published
Researchers think a microbe that was engulfed by an algal cell 100 million years ago has since evolved into an integral part of the cell's machinery.
Lost world of lagoons filled with mounds of microbes discovered in Atacama desert
By Sascha Pare published
Researchers have discovered a jaw-dropping ecosystem of crystal-clear lagoons and salt plains in Argentina's Puna de Atacama desert that could offer a window onto early life on Earth and Mars.
After you die, your microbiome cooperates with soil microbes to 'recycle' your body
By Jennifer DeBruyn published
After you die, bacteria harvest your body for the nutrients that help push daisies.
Bizarre giant viruses with tubular tentacles and star-like shells discovered in New England forest
By Kiley Price published
Giant viruses are much more diverse in shape and size than scientists previously thought, according to a new study.
Primordial steroids solve long-standing mystery about how the 1st complex life-forms evolved
By Stephanie Pappas published
Compounds from 1.6 billion years ago reveal a microbial transition that set the stage for much of today's life on Earth.
8 ancient 'zombie viruses' that scientists have pulled from the melting permafrost
By Sascha Pare published
Scientists are discovering and resurrecting ancient viruses trapped in permafrost and frozen remains. Here are 8 'zombie' viruses that scientists have pulled from the permafrost.
Bizarre, never-before-seen viruses discovered thriving throughout the world's oceans
By Sascha Pare published
The discovery of a strange group of viruses, dubbed mirusviruses, that infect ocean plankton across the globe may shed light on the origin of herpes.
Sign up for the Live Science daily newsletter now
Get the world’s most fascinating discoveries delivered straight to your inbox.