How Microbes Melt Glaciers and Ice Sheets

Explore the fascinating world of microbial life on glaciers and ice sheets in this 45-minute talk by Alexandre Magno Barbosa Anesio for the Society for Experimental Biology. Discover how these once-thought sterile environments are actually teeming with life, forming a unique and under-investigated biome. Learn about the metabolically active microorganisms that inhabit these icy landscapes and their significant impact on the physical and chemical characteristics of snow and ice. Understand the role of pigmented ice algae in reducing surface albedo, potentially accelerating glacial melt and contributing to climate change. Delve into the experimental methods used to study these microbes, including single-cell analysis, DNA extraction, and nutrient requirement assessments. Examine the life cycles and adaptations of ice and snow algae, and consider the implications of microbial activity for downstream ecosystems. Conclude by exploring predictions for microbial biodiversity in these environments and discussing potential strategies to mitigate algal growth on ice surfaces.