SYDNEY, Australia (AP) -- Researchers in Australia have uncovered evidence
that a tiny microbe may have the Midas touch
of Greek legend, capable of turning dust to gold.
Findings reported in the July 14 issue of the U.S.-based magazine "Science"
suggest a bacteria known as Ralstonia
metallidurans may play a key role in creating gold nuggets and grains.
A group of scientists led by German-born researcher Frank Reith collected
gold grains from two Australian mines more
than 3,000 kilometers (1,900 miles) apart, and discovered that 80 percent of
the grains had the bacteria living on them.
[permaculture] Heavy metal bioremediation using microbe Ralstonia metallidurans,
Lawrence F. London, Jr., 07/14/2006