Arctic microbes may speed global warming

McGill University microbiologist Lyle Whyte and his research team are studying the unique organisms in two environments in Nunavut’s High Arctic islands: those that live in Axel Heiberg’s perennial salt springs and those in the permafrost on Ellesmere.

Whyte and graduate student Nancy Perreault have detected never-before-seen micro-organisms that produce hydrogen sulphide and methane, while others may be using those compounds as energy.

The researchers believe these micro-organisms could have a real impact on the environment, especially on global warming.

“It is possible that following permafrost melting, the activities and populations of these bacteria will increase. They will produce more methane and/or carbon dioxide, creating a positive feedback loop on global warming,” Whyte said in a McGill University publication.