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Mineralogical footprints of microbial life

Jet Propulsion Laboratory, Astrobiology Research Element, MS183-301, 4800 Oak Grove Drive, Pasadena, California 91109-8099; Susanne.Douglas{at}jpl.nasa.gov

Earth’s geosphere is intimately tied to its biosphere. A major link between the two lies in the microbial realm; microorganisms grow in and upon rocks and minerals, often relying on their substratum for critical compounds needed in order to produce cellular energy. The presence of a metabolizing cell on a mineral substrate has a significant effect on the mineral texture and on the geochemistry of the surrounding microenvironment. In nature, microorganisms exist in microbial communities as mats or biofilms growing upon a solid substrate. As such they cover a vast surface area both within and below the surface of Earth’s land and sea. The following review will provide a glimpse into the latest findings in the field of geomicrobiology and is intended to convey a sense of the profound influence microorganisms can have upon the geological environment they inhabit.