Add BrightSurf on Google Email

New bacterial behavior observed

Researchers at the University of Southern California have discovered a new bacterial behavior where Shewanella oneidensis harvests electrochemical energy and swims in response to metal presence. This finding could improve the efficiency of microbial fuel cells, producing usable energy.

SourceUniversity of Southern California·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateDec 15, 2009

Lay your eggs here

Researchers found that female mosquitoes are attracted to water containers with specific fatty acids and methyl esters from bacteria, which stimulate them to lay eggs. The study aims to use this knowledge to devise lures and traps to control yellow fever mosquito populations, preventing global diseases like dengue fever.

SourceNorth Carolina State University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJul 7, 2008