Microbial colonisation in Surtsey

The aim of this research project is to collect samples from different environment in Surtsey to gain rough distribution of microbes with methods that have not been used before. Emphasis will be on observing microbes in different environments. Samples will be taken to explore colonization of pathogenic bacteria such as  Salmonella, Campylobacter, Listeria, Clostridium and Bacillus  in the surface environment.  Samples will also be collected from a borehole on Surtsey to explore the subterranean live. The borehole is a subterranean biosphere (extreme environment) with seawater coming from below and fresh water from above. The temperature gradient in the hole is from sea temperature up to 130°C and the salinity varies from fresh water to salinity of seawater. Rock samples will also be taken to explore colonization of microbes inside the rocks but microbes have roles in weathering. The intended research have not been performed on such young and isolated area before and will give important  evidence that leads to further investigations.

Project manager

• Viggó Marteinsson
  Research Group Leader
  Tel.: 422 5135

Research field

• Food Safety, Environment and Genetics