Answer: Chonkus
Notes: Researchers discovered a mutant cyanobacteria, named Chonkus, which may help combat climate change. Cyanobacteria, also called blue-green algae, are microscopic organisms that use sunlight to produce food. They thrive in nutrient-rich, warm, slow-moving waters, often forming blooms, especially in late summer or early fall. Blooms are common in waters rich in phosphorus and nitrogen from sources like fertilizer runoff. Chonkus was found near Italy's Vulcano Island in waters with volcanic, gas-rich groundwater. This cyanobacteria can absorb significantly more carbon than typical ocean cyanobacteria, potentially aiding carbon reduction efforts.
