Microbial Life in Very Cold Environments

Created by: Scott N. Montross, Montana State University

"Psychrophiles are defined as organisms having an optimal temperature for growth at about 15ºC or lower, a maximal temperature for growth at about 20º C, and a minimal temperature for growth at 0º C or below."

-Morita, R.Y. (1975) Psychrophilic bacteria. Bacteriol. Rev.39:144-167.



Subglacial stream within ice tunnel at the glacier termnus

What are psychrophiles?


Psychrophiles are commonly described as microorganisms which exhibit a growth temperature optimum of 15°C and lower. The recent discovery of cold-tolerant microorganisms in glaciated and permanently frozen environments has broadened the known range of environmental conditions which support microbial life. Psychrophilic bacteria belong to four phylogenetic groups, the alpha and gamma subdivisions of the Proteobacteria, the Flexibacter-Bacteroides-Cytophaga phylum and the gram-positive branch. Isolates from cold environments include Arthrobacter sp., Psychrobacter sp., and members of the genera Halomonas, Pseudomonas, Hyphomonas, and Sphingomonas 

Why are psychrophiles COOL?


Recent investigations have shown psycrophily is more prevalent than previously believed. Psychrophilic bacteria are represented in all three domains of life, many of these organisms are methanotrophs, sulfate reducers, iron oxidizers, and methanogens.

 

Psychrophile Collections


 
General Collection: Resources such as news articles, web sites, and reference pages provide a comprehensive array of information about psychrophiles. 




For Educators: This collection includes activities, assignments, and reading materials created specifically for educators. 



Advanced Collection: Compiled for professionals and advanced learners, this collection includes resources such as journal articles, academic reviews, and surveys.





Additional Resources


For additional resources about psychrophiles search the Microbial Life collection.