Caves are full of bacteria, fungi and other single celled microbes. We don't usually see them because they are SO tiny, but we do see color...which tells us, hmm, something is going on here... Cyanobacteria are an ancient group of organisms and live in many places where nothing else can survive. There are fossils of cyanobacter dating back for nearly 4 billion years when our climate was very different. Cyanobacter are easily seen in the thresholds of caves or in show caves where there is some light and moisture. The above photo shows some cyanobactor. Can you tell? In the dark zone of the cave bacteria is not able to make its own food because there isn't any light. But they have learned how to absorb nutrients from minerals found in the rock. Many can live off of iron, calcium carbonate, and sulfate. This kind of bacteria grows in "mats" on the surface of rocks. A common cave bacteria is called Actinobacteria. Actinobacteria are often found in soil and water. They are able to change their shape to adapt to their environment by extending out branches, or filaments. In fact, this group of bacteria got its name because of how their branches extend outward--'actino' means radiate. When trees grow roots, they are reaching out to find nutrients and water. These filaments serve the same purpose, allowing Actinobacteria to reach across dry gaps in the soil to access nutrients and water. And as a bonus, these branches increase the bacteria's surface area, allowing more nutrients to be absorbed. As you can see, there is more to a cave than meets the eye. As you look at the wonderful formations inside Timpanogos Cave, don't be afraid to look a little deeper and imagine what kind of world exists on each formation and how specialized it is to be able to survive in total darkness and without normal food resources that the other bacterial counterparts enjoy out in the sun.
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Mrs. TaylorI love science! Everything about the world is interesting and never boring. I love to study plants, animals, insects, and people. My favorite subjects are my students who are the most unique organisms on the planet! Categories |