Discovery of Unique Hot Spring Bacteria Sheds Light on Evolution
Filamentous anoxygenic phototrophs (FAPs) are a type of bacteria found in hot springs that conduct photosynthesis without producing oxygen. They are different from other phototrophs and have a unique photosynthetic system that combines features from purple and green sulfur bacteria. FAPs form colorful microbial mats with cyanobacteria, creating complex and diverse structures in hot springs. Their study helps in understanding the evolution of photosynthesis.