From: Michael M. Butler (butler@comp-lib.org)
Date: Thu May 30 2002 - 04:18:50 MDT
"Control" is a rather strong word, but 'twas ever such with headlines.
I thought it was really old news that bacteria can and do serve as
condensation nuclei, along with tiny sea salt crystals etc. Anyone on the
Extro list know anything more salient than this seeming puffery, as far as
systems analysis goes?
Bugs may control weather: Study
Samples from cumulus clouds are being examined by UK scientists ?
LONDON, England -- British scientists have launched a study to find out if
airborne bugs in clouds control the Earth's weather.
Scientists believe certain bug species may have evolved the ability to
manipulate the weather in order to secure their own survival.
A team of microbiologists from the University of East London (UEL) are
examining if the microbes play an active role in the formation of clouds and
making it rain.
Using a revolutionary "cyclonic cloud catcher", the team, led by Dr Bruce
Moffett, will collect samples of cloud water from aircraft and on uplands
across the UK.
These samples will then be analysed to discover the composition and activity
of any microbes present.
Preliminary analysis of samples already taken from low-lying cumulus clouds
near Oxford has shown the presence of micro-organisms, including
ammonia-oxidising bacteria.
The 18-month pilot project, funded by a $190,000 (£130,000) grant from the
Natural Environment Research Council, aims to test the theory that a
self-sustaining ecosystem exists in clouds and that bacteria and algae play a
key role in creating clouds and triggering rainfall.
Until now scientists have been unable to accurately detect, identify and
analyse microbial communities in harsh conditions.
Dr Moffett said: "We are looking for evidence that microbial metabolism could
have a major influence on patterns of climate and weather today.
"A really exciting possibility is that microbes have evolved ways of
triggering cloud formation and rainfall to facilitate their own dispersal and
reproduction, in other words, they could be controlling the weather."
The research could prove significant in medical and biotechnology fields, with
the possibility that some of the microbes discovered may have natural
screening against ultra violet rays or processes to neutralise greenhouse
gases.
The study will also help scientists understand the movement of airborne
pathogens such as those which spread foot-and-mouth disease among cattle.
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