Microbes

Health experts say kitchen dishwashing sponges should be replaced daily to prevent dangerous microbes. A study by scientists shows that sponges can harbor bacteria even after thorough cleaning. This could lead to issues like food poisoning and gastroenteritis.

December 10, 2025 Reported by AI

Researchers have discovered that heterotrophic microbes play a larger role in fixing carbon in the deep ocean than previously thought, challenging long-held assumptions. Led by Alyson Santoro at UC Santa Barbara, the study reveals that ammonia-oxidizing archaea contribute less than expected to this process. The findings, published in Nature Geoscience, help explain discrepancies in carbon and nitrogen cycles in dark ocean waters.