New algae could play flexible role in biofuel composition

Biofuel composition which includes algae as an energy source could be made more flexible with the discovery of a new kind of micro-organism.

Dubbed 'rappemonads', the algae group was only confirmed to exist when water samples were placed under green light, causing the organisms to glow.

However, Monterey Bay Aquarium Research Institute reports that they have since been found in both freshwater and saltwater samples.

Meanwhile, rappemonads have been found living in temperatures ranging from 52-79 degrees F (11-26 degrees C).

This variability in acceptable living conditions could ultimately allow the algae to be grown in diverse environments for use in biofuel composition.

According to the scientists, better understanding of biogeochemical cycles - such as how marine organisms convert carbon dioxide into oxygen - could also lead to better climatic modelling.

The institute was founded in 1987 and aims to develop leading research methodologies for use in deep-water oceanic studies.