Mineralogical footprints of microbial life

Abstract

Earth's geosphere is intimately tied to its biosphere. A major link between the two lies in the microbial realm; microorganisms grow in and upon rocks and minerals, often relying on their substratum for critical compounds needed in order to produce cellular energy. The presence of a metabolizing cell on a mineral substrate has a significant effect on the mineral texture and on the geochemistry of the surrounding microenvironment. In nature, microorganisms exist in microbial communities as mats or biofilms growing upon a solid substrate. As such they cover a vast surface area both within and below the surface of Earth's land and sea. The following review will provide a glimpse into the latest findings in the field of geomicrobiology and is intended to convey a sense of the profound influence microorganisms can have upon the geological environment they inhabit.