Overview

Extremophiles are microorganisms that thrive in harsh environmental conditions - where temperatures can be as high as 120˚C, the pH can range from highly acidic to strongly alkaline, and there are elevated concentrations of salts and/or heavy metals. In this research project, we are collecting and analysing samples from New Zealand hotsprings to learn more about the microbial diversity and ecology of these extreme environments.

For further information on our sampling and processing methodologies, please go to our Methodologies page

Articles

Micro-organisms: Out of this world

Microscopic beings could prove colossal to science

Publications

• New Zealand Geothermal Association manuscript
• New Zealand Geothermal Association presentation, 2013

External Links

• GNS Science Extremophiles Research Group
• Te Ara Encyclopedia – Life in hot springs
• Julian's Blog - Outreach educator for GNS Science