Archived Outdoors

Biotech leader contributes $90,000 to study microbial life in Smokies

Samples were taken from 22 diverse locations. File photo Samples were taken from 22 diverse locations. File photo

Microbial Insights has donated over $90,000 worth of advanced microbial analyses to support Discover Life in America’s research initiatives within the Great Smoky Mountains National Park. 

This collaboration aims to deepen the understanding of microscopic organisms inhabiting the park’s soil, investigating their interactions within diverse environments and potential changes over time.

The project involved the collection of soil samples from 22 distinct locations across the park, with three additional sampling sites scheduled for collection during the winter months. These sampling spots span a spectrum of ecosystems within the park, ranging from grassy balds, diverse hardwood forests, spruce/fir forests, caves, roadside locations and native grasslands that encompass various watersheds.

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