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Scientists found a new ally in the fight to clean up CO2 emissions: ‘Chonkus’.
It was discovered in the shallow sunlit waters off the coast of Italy’s Vulcano Island, where volcanic gas-rich groundwater seeps into the sea. The bacteria, known as UTEX 3222 or “Chonkus,” is a strain of Cyanobacterium aponinum that was found to reach high-density growth in scientific experiments. Chonkus was taken from marine volcanic vents in the Mediterranean Sea that had an environment high in carbon dioxide.
They metabolize carbon dioxide and sunlight to create food for itself, but cyanobacteria can absorb even more carbon dioxide than plants.
They also have the advantage of naturally separating from water, which sets them apart from other cyanobacteria and algae that have been considered for carbon sequestration.
Common Name |
Blue-green algae. |
Habitat |
Found in fresh, brackish, and marine waters. |
Type |
Single-celled, microscopic organisms. |
Nutrient Requirement |
Needs nutrients like phosphorus and nitrogen to survive. |
Photosynthesis |
Uses sunlight to make its own food. |
Optimal Conditions for Growth |
Warm, nutrient-rich environments with slow-moving water. |
Sources of Nutrients |
Fertilizer runoff, septic tank overflows, and other nutrient-rich sources. |
Bloom Formation |
Can form at any time, but most common in late summer or early fall. Blooms spread across the water’s surface, often creating a thick, green scum. |
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PRACTICE QUESTION Q.The term ‘Chonkus’ was recently in the news. It is related to which among the following? (a) Tribe (b) Missile (c) Bacteria (d) Aircraft Answer: c Explanation: Recent research has revealed a unique strain of cyanobacteria, known as Chonkus. This strain was discovered in the volcanic ocean vents near Vulcano, Italy. It thrives in high CO2 environments, making it important for carbon sequestration efforts. |
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