Summarize how the abiotic factors of biomes affect the ability of organisms to grow, survive, and carry out photosynthesis, then learn more about how researchers in North Carolina are studying one abiotic factor, soil, and how the microorganisms it contains help contribute to the health of plants.
microbes
Cicada Secrets
Researchers work to unlock the secrets of summer’s favorite insect — the cicada. Cicada wings kill microbes on contact, and the design could hold engineering secrets for nanotechnology scientists.
All in the Timing
New Study Shows Old Antibiotics May Still Be Effective Against Resistant Bacteria
June 11, 2015
June 11, 2015
Antibiotic resistant bacteria promise to be one of the great public health challenges of the next century.
Dirt On Dirt
What’s in dirt anyway?
Admit it.
After sinking the shovel or trowel into the ground to plant something, you end up looking at the dirt that is pulled up and asking yourself, “Just what is in dirt that helps plants to grow?”
We’ve all asked the question at some point. So, to keep things really simple, the answer is that there is a lot of 'stuff' in dirt — including rocks, sand, clay and organic matter. The United States Environmental Protection Agency says the average soil sample is 45% minerals, 25% water, 25% air, and 5% organic matter.
Harnessing Microbials
Scientists harness naturally occurring microbes, such as bacteria and fungi, to replace or complement traditional fertilizers, which is helping farmers produce greater yields while fighting drought and disease.
Ocean Acidification
Microbes in an Acidic Ocean
October 3, 2014
Rapid Water Test
The greatest danger for beachgoers may be millions of microbes also swimming in the water. While many are there naturally, stormwater runoff and sewage system failures can overwhelm coastal waters. One percent of NC's beaches were closed for short times in 2012 because of microbial contaminants. A marine biologist has now developed a rapid water test to keep the public safe.