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Ancient Microbes Awaken in Thawing Alaska Permafrost

10/7/2025

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Summary

Story summary

Ancient microbes trapped in Alaska's permafrost for 40,000 years awaken as thawing releases carbon dioxide and methane from decomposed organic matter.
Samples came from a 350-foot tunnel operated by the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers.
Initial growth was slow, with colonies replacing one cell in 100,000 daily.
After six months, some microbes formed biofilms, indicating active life.

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Story summary

Ancient microbes trapped in Alaska's permafrost for 40,000 years awaken as thawing releases carbon dioxide and methane from decomposed organic matter.
Samples came from a 350-foot tunnel operated by the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers.
Initial growth was slow, with colonies replacing one cell in 100,000 daily.
After six months, some microbes formed biofilms, indicating active life.