Rasamsonia emersonii Heat-loving fungus – only thrives above 45°C
Some microbes thrive in ordinary environments. Others push the limits. Rasamsonia emersonii is one of the latter. This fungus loves heat – and only really comes to life when temperatures rise above 45 degrees Celsius.
Warm, warmer, Rasamsonia
R. emersonii is a thermophilic organism: a microbe that lives at high temperatures. It only grows in environments between 45 and 62°C – temperatures at which most other life forms give up. But for this fungus, it’s perfect.
Tough and useful
Because R. emersonii can withstand such extreme heat, it’s of great interest to scientists and biotechnologists. It produces enzymes that stay active at high temperatures – ideal for industrial processes. It also helps produce chitinases: natural substances that inhibit other fungi. A fungus that fights fungi, in other words.
In your own back garden
You may have met R. emersonii without realising it. This fungus is often found in compost heaps. These can heat up significantly – sometimes reaching 70°C – making them the perfect habitat. While you’re throwing out garden waste, this microbe is building its warm, nutrient-rich home.
See Rasamsonia emersonii up close
Curious to see what this heat lover looks like under the microscope? Visit ARTIS-Micropia and discover Rasamsonia emersonii – along with many other microbes that live in surprising places and play vital roles in our world.
Rasamsonia emersonii is just one of the many microbes on display at ARTIS-Micropia. Each of these microscopic organisms has its own unique role to play. Come and discover them all!