Structural Roles of Carbonates in Cyanobacterial Ecosystems

Abstract:

Precipitation of carbonates associated with cyanobacteria is a widespread phenomenon. As carbonate minerals form they in turn, can modify the immediate surroundings of the living cells, in some cases influencing cell to substrate attachment, matrix structure stability and modification of the local light environment experienced by the cells. We will present examples and preliminary data from work under way, to assess these ecophysiological functions in a variety of cyanobacterial ecosystems.