Marine microbes shed packets of DNA, nutrients

Bacterial vesicles may offer genetic exchange opportunities, affect carbon cycle

BACTERIA BUBBLE  Photosynthetic bacteria called Prochlorococcus pinch off bits of themselves to make sacs called vesicles (one indicated by arrow). The vesicles may influence carbon levels in the ocean and affect climate change.

S. Biller/Chisholm Lab

Superabundant bacteria in the ocean routinely sacrifice parts of themselves, scientists have discovered.