Indian researchers have expressed great excitement following the discovery of rare bacteria in Ethiopia.
They have said that they are now planning to subject it to a thorough analysis of its genome sequence to identify the bacteria's characteristics and survival mechanisms.
The bacteria was found by three climbers - Swapan Ghosh, Manas Saha, and Satyarup Siddhanta - who collaborated with Burdwan University in West Bengal and worked closely with professors from botany, microbiology, geography, and chemistry departments for training for the expedition.
"We got training in how to collect samples and store them, the usage of chemicals, and equipment, and following safety measures. We then sought permission from the concerned department for the collection of the samples and also extended the idea of promoting geo-tourism in Ethiopia and collaboration for bilateral researchers and expeditions," mountaineer Satyarup Siddhanta told Sputnik India.
Indian climbers made discovery of rare bacteria samples during expedition in Ethiopia
© Photo : Satyarup Siddhanta
On February 3, the climbers, along with volcanologist Enku Mulugeta, embarked on their scientific expedition.
Battling harsh weather, challenging terrain, and the threat of molten lava, these climbers gathered water, mud, and plant samples from active volcanoes, mud volcanoes, hot geysers, waterbodies, hot springs, and salt lakes.
“We collected samples from different locations, like the Erta Ale volcano, the geysers at Allolabed, and the saline lakes at Lake Asale and Dallol. Some of the areas were quite interesting yet dangerous. But it was worth taking up the risk. We worked as a bridge for scientists to reach out to these distant places and collect samples for their research and discoveries,” Siddhanta said.
To bring these samples to India, mountaineers had to face many clearance issues.
“We had to leave a lot of samples at the airport because we were allowed to take only a few. We sought permission from various departments and ensured them that the samples are for scientific purposes and not for commercial use,” he added.
Researchers at Burdwan University are studying a special chemical process in these bacteria and its potential uses.
The team also intends to conduct a comparison of these bacteria with those present in the Antarctic region, paying particular attention to their unique features, such as the existence of extracellular polysaccharide coatings.