“Chonkus” algae found off Italian coast shows promise in improving climate change situation

A new strain of cyanobacteria, informally named “Chonkus”, has been identified in hydrothermal waters off the Italian island of Vulcano, sparking interest in its carbon-capturing potential. Discovered during a marine study to collect water samples from Vulcano’s shallow volcanic vents, this large cyanobacteria, officially designated as strain UTEX 3222, exhibits unique characteristics that may contribute to carbon sequestration efforts .

The hydrothermal environment around Vulcano provides a high concentration of carbon dioxide (CO₂), which would encourage the growth of Chonkus. Observations reveal that the cells of this cyanobacterium develop carbon-dense granules, which accelerate its sinking rate in marine environments. Scientists believe these adaptations allow Chonkus to absorb carbon directly from its environment, thereby promoting its growth and causing it to settle in the deep ocean, where it stores the captured carbon.

Potential benefits for industrial applications

The Chonkus’ ability to form large colonies and store carbon internally is not only valuable in its natural environment; it is promising for industrial applications. By storing carbon more efficiently than other strains, Chonkus could reduce energy costs for industries involved in carbon capture by up to 30 percent. Professor George Church, a leading health science and technology researcher affiliated with Harvard University and the Massachusetts Institute of Technology, noted that the discovery harnesses natural evolutionary processes, potentially helping humanity cope with the crisis climate through environmentally effective means.

Balancing innovation and environmental prudence

Although Chonkus exhibits a range of desirable characteristics for carbon capture, researchers advise cautious application. Large-scale microbial releases can disrupt existing ecosystems and carbon retention may not be permanent if these organisms die. Nevertheless, given its resilience to high temperatures and rapid growth rate, it has potential for various uses in biomanufacturing, particularly in settings such as bioreactors.

Although there are still challenges ahead, this discovery marks a promising step toward more sustainable carbon capture solutions through natural microbial adaptations.