The A-to-X of Olive Quick Decline Syndrome
The syndrome, caused by the bacterium Xyllella fastidiosa, was first detected in southern Italy in 2013. Can ancient olive orchards survive its effects?
How Yellowstone Extremophile Bacteria Helped With Covid-19 Testing
The heat-resistant enzyme from Thermus aquaticus is used in PCR testing to detect pathogens.
Is Plastic Pollution Depriving Us of Oxygen?
Plastic debris is killing the ocean’s “invisible forests,” which produce ten percent of the oxygen we breathe.
The Pros (And Cons) of Probiotics
Probiotics are a hot topic--and big business--these days. But do they really work?
Fighting Bacterial Infection With…Viruses?
As bacteria develop resistance to widely-used antibiotics, some researchers are turning to bacteria’s natural enemy: a very special virus called a bacteriophage.
Microbes Might Paint Your Next Party Dress
The official “fashion month,” September has concluded its parade of gorgeous outfits. These contain harmful dyes, though. Can microbes make safer colors?
Can Bacteria Improve the Water We Drink?
Municipal water treatment just got easier, cheaper, and more efficient. And it's all thanks to an unlikely helper: bacteria.
Should We Worry About Ancient Pathogens Being Revived?
Accidental exposure to bacteria trapped inside a crystal is unlikely. Frozen ancient pathogens, however, are another matter.
How Microcosms Help Us Understand Ecology
Is it possible to witness evolution in action? Researchers at University of California, San Diego, aiming to do just ...
