Hidden tree bark microbes munch on important climate gases

Trees are known for capturing carbon dioxide as they grow. But they also soak up other gases implicated in climate change through microbes in their bark.

The tree bark microbes feast on hydrogen, methane and carbon monoxide, researchers report January 8 in Science. Methane is a greenhouse gas 28 times more potent than carbon dioxide over a 100-year period. Carbon monoxide — which is lethal to humans — and hydrogen enhance global warming indirectly, by helping methane persist longer in the atmosphere.

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