Mysterious black goo discovered aboard ship reveals species unknown to science
Yahoo • • science
Key Points:
- Researchers at the University of Minnesota, Duluth, discovered a mysterious black substance called "ShipGoo001" aboard the research vessel R/V Blue Heron on the Great Lakes during routine maintenance.
- Analysis revealed the goo contained living microbes, including DNA from potentially new branches of life such as a previously unknown order of archaea and a new bacterial phylum.
- The microbes thrive in semi-warm, oxygen-free environments similar to the ship’s mechanical systems, possibly transported via oil used on the rudder and remaining dormant until conditions favored growth.
- Some microbes found can produce methane, raising concerns about their environmental impact, while the discovery highlights nature's ability to survive in human-made environments.
- The find has garnered public interest and amusement online, illustrating the value of exploratory scientific research beyond traditional project goals.
