Water Chemistry Methods Red Layer Microbial Observatory Using Microbial Diversity and Biotechnology to Enhance Learning

National Science Foundation Western Oregon University Yellowstone National Park

Introduction

During the first 3 years of this project (1998-2000), we focused on determining the location and distribution of RLMO communities in Yellowstone. DNA analysis revealed that the red bacteria (members of the Red Chloroflexi phylum) were genetically diverse and that variation occurred in a site-specific manner (i.e. there was one unique cluster who lived at Hillside Spring, a different unique cluster at Fairy – and so on). For a summary figure of this work, click HERE. Given these data, we wanted to examine why this was happening – were there, for example, physical or chemical differences at the springs that were selecting one cluster over another in different places? For these studies, we are focusing on four RLMO communities (left to right): Hillside, Fairy, Spray, and Imperial.

Hypothesis Currently Being Tested

Site-specific variants are selected by environmental conditions (physical, temperature, and/or pH) at a given site.

Current Objectives

(1)  To monitor geochemical signatures in geothermal groundwater at well-characterized RLMO sites

(2) To use these data in our efforts to develop designer media for as-yet-uncultured Red Chloroflexi

(3) To archive and share these data via our on-line RLMO database

General Methods Description

Field test kits from Hach, Inc. were selected on the basis of cost, required sample size, and reported information about hot spring geochemistry.   All kits were read using a portable device that measured chemical-dependent color changes (DR/890 Colorimeter, Hach, Inc).  While half the tests (non-metals) are completed in the field, the remaining tests (metals) require complex processing, performed 1 week after returning from the field.  Currently, 2 undergraduate teams assess each of the above sites twice each summer (July and September) as part of our ongoing GERMS monitoring program. These methods were developed by undergraduate research fellows Peter Williams (2000-2), Melissa Boschee (2002-1), Terry Manning (2002-4), and Danny Lodge (research assistant, 1999-2004).

Click here for technical information about how we carry out field collection and testing.

Click here for technical information about how we carry out post-field metal testing.

Query the RLMO Database for Current Chemistry Information!