Gliding Motility in Filamentous Cyanobacteria

Dr. Doug Risser 
Faculty, University of the Pacific 

Cyanobacteria are a phylum of bacteria that obtain their energy through photosynthesis. They are very versatile organisms. Dr. Risser’s talk is about one aspect of their versatility – their ability to move. Cyanobacteria take the shape of filaments that look like tiny worms under a microscope. Dr. Risser explains that they have developed their ability to move in order to look for light. These bacteria form structures of various shapes and sizes, which have been found is fossilized form. Dr. Risser states that by studying the structures, including how and why they form, potentially can provide information about life forms in the distant past. 

Recorded: April 11, 2016