What microorganisms can live on surprising chemicals?

Arsenic-eating microbe may redefine chemistry of life. Oddball bacterium can survive without one of biology's essential building blocks. Alla Katsnelson ... A bacterium found in the arsenic-filled waters of a Californian lake is poised to overturn scientists' understanding of the biochemistry of living organisms. read more

It is not too surprising, then, that vinegar is produced by acidophilic bacteria that thrive in a pH below 4.0 and can survive down to pH 0. The chemical name for vinegar is acetic acid, and the species that creates vinegar is known as Acetobacter aceti. read more

As microorganisms, in particular bacteria, are found virtually everywhere, harmful microorganisms may be reduced to acceptable levels rather than actually eliminated. In food preparation, microorganisms are reduced by preservation methods such as cooking, cleanliness of utensils, short storage periods, or by low temperatures. read more