Marine microorganisms are an almost untapped resource of biotechnological potential. They could potentially provide clues that will help moderate climate change, control disease and generate alternative energy sources. However, their use is hindered by the low success rate for isolating novel microorganisms and by poor growth efficiency. Consequently, the vast majority of marine microorganisms have not been cultivated and are often considered as ‘unculturable’.
The objective of the MaCuMBA project is to uncover the untold diversity of marine microbes using cultivation-dependent strategies. MaCuMBA aims to improve the isolation rate and growth efficiency of marine microorganisms from conventional and extreme habitats.
If you would like to know more about this project, visit the official MaCuMBA website: http://www.macumbaproject.eu