Scientists have just unveiled a groundbreaking new species of bacteria that operates like biological electrical wiring—this could pave the way for revolutionary bioelectronic devices that will impact medicine, industry, food safety, and environmental sustainability!

Introducing Electrothrix yaqonensis!

Discovered in the mud flats of Oregon’s coast, this innovative bacteria has been named Ca. Electrothrix yaqonensis in honor of the Yaqona people, indigenous to the area where it was found. The landmark findings were reported in the latest issue of *Applied and Environmental Microbiology*.

A Unique Discovery

The discovery was a collaborative effort led by Cheng Li, a postdoctoral researcher at Oregon State University (OSU), and Clare Reimers, a leading professor emerita at OSU. They identified this new species in sediment samples collected from the Yaquina Bay estuary.

Bacteria That Shine in Electric Conductivity

Cable bacteria, like Electrothrix, are fascinating due to their unique structure—rod-shaped cells connected end-to-end, forming long filaments that can extend several centimeters. What sets them apart is their ability to conduct electricity, a remarkable adaptation that enhances their metabolic processes in sediment.

A Genetic and Metabolic Marvel

Electrothrix yaqonensis showcases a blend of genetic traits from both the Ca. Electrothrix and Ca. Electronema genera of cable bacteria. According to Li, this species represents an essential evolutionary branch, providing new insights into the evolution and functionality of these remarkable microorganisms.

Electrothrix: Nature’s Green Cleaners!

These bacteria excel at long-distance electron transport, connecting deep sediment layers with surface electron acceptors like oxygen and nitrate. This unique capability positions them as crucial players in sediment geochemistry and nutrient cycling. Remarkably, they can also aid in pollutant cleanup—offering the potential to eliminate harmful substances from our environment!

Honoring Legacy and Collaboration

The name Electrothrix yaqonensis is a tribute to the Yaqona people, whose ancestral lands include Yaquina Bay. In partnership with the Confederated Tribes of Siletz Indians, the researchers chose this name to recognize the historical ties and the tribe's significant contributions to ecological knowledge and sustainability.

Collaborative Research with Far-Reaching Implications

The research involved scientists from multiple prestigious institutions and received support from various grants, including the Office of Naval Research and the European Innovation Council. This collaborative effort emphasizes the potential for this new species to inspire advancements in bioelectronics and environmental health.

In a world seeking innovative solutions for ecological challenges, Electrothrix yaqonensis stands out as a remarkable ally. Keep an eye on this electrifying discovery!