This on-line news article investigates the question: Can microbial life thrive in the caustic conditions common to floor strippers and baking soda? It reports samples near a landfill in south Chicago that reveal alkaline solutions are basic to certain bacterial superbugs. The article explores the habitat, genetic analysis, and close relatives of these microbial wonders while also conveying that much more research is needed in the area. Useful links are located at the end of the article.
Subject: Biology:Ecology:Symbiotic Relations:Mutualism, Biology:Ecology:Metabolism, Biology:Biogeochemistry, Microbiology Resource Type: Scientific Resources:Overview/Reference Work Grade Level: General Public, College Lower (13-14), High School (9-12) Extreme Environments: Alkaline Theme: Teach the Earth:Course Topics:BiogeoscienceKeyword: alkaliphiles