Colony of Nostoc commune after rain C015 / 6232
Wall Art and Photo Gifts from Science Photo Library
Colony of Nostoc commune after rain C015 / 6232
A colony of Nostoc commune growing on a concrete footbridge, Norfolk, UK. N. commune is a photosynthetic nitrogen fixing colonial cyanobacterium with a world-wide distribution. In nutrient deficient soils it can be an important source of fixed nitrogen. The colonies have a remarkable ability to exist in a highly dessicated form, often for years. Upon wetting, rehydration is complete within hours, with the restoration of respiration preceding the ability to fix nitrogen. In its dry form, the organism appears as dry fragments of brittle brown material; the sudden appearance of the extended olive green slimey colony following rain may account for its sometimes being identified with Biblical mannah. N. commune is used as a food item in many countries, including Peru, Japan, Indonesia, The Philippines and China. It is also the photosynthetic partner in many lichens
Science Photo Library features Science and Medical images including photos and illustrations
Media ID 9209821
© DR JEREMY BURGESS/SCIENCE PHOTO LIBRARY
Cyanobacterium Lichen Nitrogen Fixation Photosynthesis Rehydration Respiration Dessication
EDITORS COMMENTS
This print captures a stunning sight - a colony of Nostoc commune thriving on a concrete footbridge in Norfolk, UK. N. commune, a photosynthetic nitrogen-fixing colonial cyanobacterium, can be found worldwide and plays a vital role in nutrient-deficient soils as an important source of fixed nitrogen. What makes these colonies truly remarkable is their ability to survive in an extremely dry state for years until the arrival of rain triggers their revival. In its desiccated form, this organism appears as brittle brown fragments. However, when wetted by rainwater, rehydration occurs rapidly within hours. The restoration of respiration precedes the organism's capability to fix nitrogen once again. This sudden transformation from dry fragments to extended olive green slimy colonies has led some to draw parallels between Nostoc commune and the Biblical manna. Beyond its ecological significance, N. commune also holds cultural importance around the globe. It is utilized as a food item in various countries such as Peru, Japan, Indonesia, The Philippines, and China. Additionally, this cyanobacterium serves as the photosynthetic partner in many lichens. Through this mesmerizing image captured by Dr Jeremy Burgess from Science Photo Library (not affiliated with any company), we are reminded of nature's resilience and adaptability even under challenging conditions like dessication.
MADE IN THE USA
Safe Shipping with 30 Day Money Back Guarantee
FREE PERSONALISATION*
We are proud to offer a range of customisation features including Personalised Captions, Color Filters and Picture Zoom Tools
SECURE PAYMENTS
We happily accept a wide range of payment options so you can pay for the things you need in the way that is most convenient for you
* Options may vary by product and licensing agreement. Zoomed Pictures can be adjusted in the Cart.
