PubMed · 1993 · 26 citations · 0 references
Natural SciencesEarth SciencesMicrobiologyAstrochemistryGeochemistryMicrobial EcologyCarbon CycleCarbon CyclingCarbon FixationCarbon SequestrationCarbon StorageMars AstrobiologyAppropriate TechnologyCarbon Cycle ResponsesCarbon Sequestration By MicrobesMartian Carbon CycleMicrobial Carbon MineralizationMicrobial Carbon SequestrationMineralization Of Carbon DioxideTerrestrial Carbon Cycle
One of the most difficult tasks in terraforming Mars is the release into the atmosphere of CO2 bound by the surface of Mars. Even if a sufficiently dense CO2 atmosphere can be created by appropriate technology, the maintenance of CO2 concentration remains a problem. As Mars lacks plate tectonics as well as active volcanism, an Earth-like carbon cycle cannot be reproduced there. We suggest that Matteia sp., a lime-boring cyanobacterium isolated from Negev desert rocks, be used to dissolve carbonate rocks both for initial release of CO2 and in design of a Martian carbon cycle.