Psychrophiles as sources for bioinspiration in biomineralization and biological materials science

Abstract

It is well known that extremely cold environments have significant impacts on the ecology, metabolism, and evolution of psychrophilic organisms. However, the relationship between metabolic and biomineralogical processes is not understood. In this chapter, we examine the biomineralization and diversity of selected prokaryotic and eukaryotic psychrophiles. We focus attention on biosilicification (in diatoms, silicoflagellates, radiolarians, sponges) and biocalcification (in bacteria, foraminiferans, sponges, bryozoans, corals, molluscs, echinoderms, crustaceans) as well as pay special attention to the biology and adaptation mechanisms of icefish species. Additionally, we present a wealth of information on references related to the topic that may be a time-saving resource for experts in materials science who are looking for model or key organisms as sources for special scientific and technological inspiration.