During a recent study, researchers discovered over 30 previously unknown viruses in an ice cap in Central Asia. These viruses have been preserved for hundreds of thousands of years and are unrecognizable to modern scientists. The study, published in bioRxiv, highlights the importance of accurately sampling ice cores to study microbial and viral content. The researchers found 33 different viruses in the ice, with only four formally categorized. The discovery raises concerns about the potential release of these ancient microbes due to melting glaciers caused by climate change.
Glacial ice has the capacity to store microscopic particles for thousands of years, providing insight into Earth’s history. The study involved sampling two ice cores from the Guliya ice cap, with careful handling to prevent microbial contamination. The researchers built a cold room to access the interior of the ice cores, revealing a layer uncontaminated by modern bacteria.
The microbes found in the ice cores varied significantly, reflecting the different climate conditions at the time of deposition. Many of the bacteria are psychrophilic, thriving in cold temperatures, suggesting they could be revived if the glacier melts. Further research is needed to understand the implications of these ancient viruses and their potential impact if released into the environment.
Sources
- Zhi-Ping Zhong et al. Glacier ice archives fifteen-thousand-year-old viruses. BioRxiv. January 7, 2020
- Laura Geggel. Ancient never-before-seen viruses discovered locked up in Tibetan glacier. Live Science. January 22, 2020
- Isabella O’Malley. Dozens of previously unknown viruses discovered in 15,000-year-old glaciers. The Weather Network. January 29, 2020
- Kristin Hauser. Several Ancient Viruses Have Been Discovered in 15,000-Year-Old Glacial Ice. Science Alert. January 23, 2020
