Hidden Earth 2019

The Weird Microbiology of Mulu

30 minute Lecture|Dr Hazel Barton

Abstract

Exploration throughout the caves of Gunung Mulu National Park has revealed a host of deposits of unknown origin. During the Mulu ’19 expedition we examined some of these deposits to determine whether they were formed through geologic processes, or whether microbiology could be involved. Our results, based on preliminary field observations, suggest that there are a number of formations that are created by microbial processes. In addition, the temperature, high humidity of the caves, and extensive deposits of bird guano throughout the caves are possibly driving microbial processes that have not previously been described in caves. Together these results suggest a fascinating microbiology within these caves that warrants further investigation.