Chemolithotrophy in the continental deep subsurface: Sanford Underground Research Facility (SURF), USA.

ABSTRACT: The deep subsurface is an enormous repository of microbial life. However, the metabolic capabilities of these microorganisms and the degree to which they are dependent on surface processes are largely unknown. Due to the logistical difficulty of sampling and inherent heterogeneity, the microbial populations of the terrestrial subsurface are poorly characterized. In an effort to better understand the biogeochemistry of deep terrestrial habitats, we evaluate the energetic yield of chemolithotrophic metabolisms and microbial diversity in the Sanford Underground Research Facility (SURF) in the former Homestake Gold Mine, SD, USA. Geochemical data, energetic modeling, and DNA sequencing were combined with principle component analysis to describe this deep (down to 8100 ft below surface), terres

SUBMITTER: Osburn MR 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC4228859 | biostudies-literature | 2014

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature