Abstract

Overview

Magnetotactic bacteria (MTB) are organisms that use magnetotaxis to navigate to their optimal habitats. This study explores the magnetotactic advantages of MTB in stable sediment conditions.

Findings

• The research focused on two types of wild MTB: cocci and rod-shaped M. bavaricum.
• Experiments were conducted in different magnetic field conditions: natural geomagnetic field, absence of magnetic field (zero field), and an alternating magnetic field with polarity switched every 24 hours.
• In zero field environments, the concentration of M. bavaricum decreased by approximately 50% over six months, with no significant patterns indicating potential extinction.
• Upon re-exposure to Earth's geomagnetic field, cell concentrations returned to initial levels within about 1.5 months.
• The alternating magnetic field condition led to a moderate decline in M. bavaricum levels and a nearly complete extinction of cocci, demonstrating the crucial role of magnetotaxis in survival and adaptation.

Conclusion

This study offers new insights into the mechanism of magnetotaxis and its evolutionary benefits, particularly how MTB might have adapted to historical geomagnetic field reversals. This research lays groundwork for understanding the biological implications of electromagnetic fields on microorganisms.