MICROBIAL BATTERIES: ISOLATION OF PHOTOSYNTHETIC ANAEROBIC BACTERIA FROM PIERMONT MARSH

The power of microorganisms can be harnessed so that energy from photosynthesis can be stored in chemical and mineral forms. This power cycle is analogous to organic matter cycling, in which photosynthesis produces organic matter that is the basis for all ecosystems and respiration returns organic matter to its mineral form. This work introduces initial stages of the development of a microbial battery in which photosynthetic anaerobic bacteria were isolated; these bacteria store the sun's energy as oxidized (Fe) iron minerals. This chemical “battery” is charged with sunlight which then releases energy using a symbiotic bacterium. Eight soil samples were collected from Sparkill Creek and Tidal Stream at Piermont Marsh (Palisades NY) at different depths. These samples were then stored in septum bottles with a CO₂ atmosphere in which they are deprived of oxygen. The presence of anaerobic bacteria cells and the lack of oxygen contributed to a more efficient process for the reproduction of appropriate bacteria.