extremophile science frontier to the future

Exploring the mega-potential of microorganisms found in extreme geothermal environments

Hot springs, bubbling mud This is biodiversity that science is only pools, crater lakes, undersea just starting to discover. Yet already it is volcanoes and other clear that extremophiles could lead to geothermal environments are solutions of global importance. without exception ‘extreme’. Since 2003, the GNS Science The only life forms that survive such geomicrobiology team has taken harsh conditions are unique forms of samples from around the Taupo Volcanic microorganisms – which are appropriately Zone and the Kermadec Arc – and tagged ‘extremophiles’. These microbes studied those samples under stringent thrive where temperatures can be as high laboratory conditions. as 120˚C, the pH can range from highly acidic to strongly alkaline, and there are These are early days in the world of elevated concentrations of salts extremophile science: but they are and/or heavy metals. exciting days. at a glance

Unique New Zealand’s unique environments: sulphur oxidisers, Credibility GNS Science is developing geothermal environments may contain methanotrophs, hydrogenotrophs, knowledge and experience to become extremophiles that are difficult to find organotrophs, and metal respirers. a world-leader in extremophile elsewhere in the world. The diversity These extremophiles could research, reinforcing New Zealand’s of geothermal features in New Zealand provide solutions ranging from new status as a player in global science. rivals any other major geothermal medicines, to more effective bio-fuels, Linked Our findings are available area in the world. to new ways of treating contaminated to other research teams around Breakthrough Extremophiles open a wastewaters. the world – adding to international new frontier of science. Biotechnology Environmental protection science knowledge and benefits. and bioremediation are major growth By researching the biodiversity Future capability This is unashamedly industries, providing the green of geothermal environments, science for the future. In years to technology of the future. GNS Science is establishing come the economic return to New Diverse We are focusing on diverse the knowledge to protect those Zealand could be significant. bacteria that form the basis environments. That’s important, of the food web in geothermal because if the environments are lost, the opportunities will also be lost.

www.gns.cri.nz Geothermal science - power renewed. Extremophile science frontier to the future

95% of all microbial species are still undiscovered: the potential uses are beyond imagining.

“New Zealand is possibly the world’s greatest natural laboratory for Dr Peter Dunfield extremophile research. The complementary geology, microbiology GNS Science geomicrobiology team and geochemistry expertise at GNS Science gives us a unique

potential to understand how life functions in these exotic habitats.” about us

Our work is based at the GNS Science microorganisms and equipment for Whether you are interested in unique Extremophile Research Laboratory, DNA-based research into genetic geothermal microorganisms from a headquartered at our Wairakei diversity. pure research perspective, or you’d Research Centre. The team is made like to know more about the potential GNS Science works together with up of two specialist scientists and applications – extremophiles are private landowners, Maori groups, and two technicians. fascinating, compelling and very exciting. scientific partners in New Zealand The team have a purpose-built and internationally. laboratory, which includes equipment

for the cultivation of fastidious contact us

We would welcome the opportunity to Wairakei Research Centre talk with you to discuss our extremophiles 114 Karetoto Road research or potential commercial Wairakei 3377 Private Bag 2000 applications. Taupo 3352 VISIT www.gns.cri.nz/extremophiles New Zealand T +64-7-374 8211 CALL +64 7 374 8211 F +64-7-374 8199 Email: [email protected]

www.gns.cri.nz Geothermal science - power renewed.