Microbes generate at least half the oxygen we breathe. Microbes offer unusual capabilities reflecting the diversity of their environmental niches. These may prove to be useful as a source of new genes and organisms of value in addressing bioremediation, global change, biotechnology, and energy production. Microbial studies will help us define the entire repertoire of organisms in specialized niches and, ultimately, the mechanisms by which they interact in the biosphere. Diversity patterns of microorganisms can be used for monitoring and predicting environmental change.
Microbes are roots of life's family tree.
An understanding of their genomes will help us understand how more complex genomes developed. Microbial communities are excellent models for understanding biological interactions and evolution. This microbe was discovered in 1915 by Chaim Weizmann, who noted its ability to convert starch into the organic solvents acetone and butanol, which have multiple applications in industrial settings. In gratitude for Weizmann's work, the British government offered to honor him, but he asked instead for support of a Jewish homeland in Palestine. This led to the Balfour Declaration of 1917, committing Britain to sanction what became in 1948 the state of Israel, with Weizmann as its first president.