From 2016 to 2018 the Tara Pacific expedition carried out a two-year scientific study of Pacific coral reefs. The team examined 32 archipelagos and collected a total of 58,000 samples. The mission aimed to describe the biodiversity of the reefs and nearby open water systems.
Researchers led by Rebecca Vega Thurber used a genomic approach to study the coral reef microbiome. They sampled bacteria from two types of stony coral and one fire coral. The team found many bacteria that were specific to their coral hosts and not present in the water. These bacteria make bioactive small molecules that could be useful in medicine and industry, for example in drugs, laundry detergents, concrete development and new biotechnology materials.
Difficult words
- expedition — organized trip for scientific work
- archipelago — group of islands close togetherarchipelagos
- biodiversity — different kinds of life in one place
- genomic — related to an organism's DNA and genes
- microbiome — community of microbes on or in an organism
- sample — a small part taken to study or testsampled, samples
- bioactive — able to change living cells or organisms
Tip: hover, focus or tap highlighted words in the article to see quick definitions while you read or listen.
Discussion questions
- Where did the Tara Pacific expedition study and collect samples?
- Why might the bioactive molecules be useful for medicine and industry?
- Would you like to join a scientific expedition like this? Why or why not?
Related articles
Deforestation and Indigenous communities in the Republic of Congo
Civil society groups say logging and other extractive activity, often linked to Chinese firms, are accelerating forest loss in the Congo Basin. Indigenous peoples face land loss and threats to their livelihoods while oversight and compensation remain unclear.
High-fat diet lets gut bacteria reach mouse brains
Emory University researchers found that a short high-fat diet can let live gut bacteria travel to the brain in mice. The bacteria moved along the vagus nerve; returning to a normal diet reduced this effect and researchers call for more study.
Engineered bacteria produce tagatose sweetener
Tufts researchers engineered Escherichia coli to make tagatose, a rare sugar that can substitute for table sugar. They used a slime mold enzyme and another enzyme to convert glucose, producing higher yields; tagatose is low‑calorie and FDA‑recognized as safe.
Decolonising science: translating science into African languages
A radio programme explores how using African languages and local knowledge can make science easier to understand. Reporters and experts discuss translation challenges, practical steps and how communities can help shape scientific language.
Wearable 10‑Minute Antibody Sensors from University of Pittsburgh
Researchers at the University of Pittsburgh made a wearable biosensor that detects antibodies in interstitial fluid in 10 minutes without a blood draw. The tiny carbon nanotube sensors are highly sensitive and the work appears in Analytical Chemistry.