Page designed and maintained by Hazel Mottram.Last modified 25/01/02

Project objectives

1. To develop new and refine existing techniques to quantify the presence and activity of prokaryotic microorganisms in sub-seafloor sediments.

2. To explore the phylogenetic diversity and physiological potential of the deep biota.

3. To demonstrate the fidelity of new and improved procedures by integrated studies using different but complementary techniques and by comparison with geochemical data and the results from model experiments.

4. To develop sensitive indices for distinguishing thermogenic and biogenic processes and hence their interaction in deep sediments.

5. To use these techniques and approaches on future ODP Legs of specific deep biosphere interest.