The rare biosphere; discovering how soil bacteria live on air

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In Antarctic deserts where photosynthetic potential is low, we discovered that soil microbiomes sustain their energy and carbon budgets through a novel process reliant on trace gases we coined 'atmospheric chemosynthesis'. But how do soil bacteria literally live on air? This project aims to reveal functional chemoautotrophic pathways in cultured soil bacteria that use trace gases as a source of energy and carbon acquisition. We will perform biogeochamistry, transcriptomics and proteomics on the first model bacterial strains genetically capable of this overlooked process. Outcomes will advance knowledge on microbial metabolism, extending the repertoire of hydrogen-oxidising bacteria to soil ecosystem services, primarily primary production.