Discovery of Archaea in Extreme Environments

Taxonomy & Systematics 1970

Discoverers: Thomas D. Brock

Overview

Isolation of thermophilic microorganisms from hot springs in Yellowstone National Park, challenging assumptions about the limits of life.

Significance

Expanded the known range of habitable environments and led to the discovery of Taq polymerase, enabling the polymerase chain reaction (PCR).

Methodology

Culturing and characterising Thermus aquaticus from Mushroom Spring at 70 degrees Celsius in Yellowstone.

Impact