Students Observe a 'Plastic-Eating' Fungus

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No Life

Very interesting! I wish the article was longer and more informative though. Hopefully this has some traction and leads to more detailed finds.

http://www.geek.com/articles/news/students-discover-fungus-that-loves-to-eat-plastic-2012022/

Feb 4 2012 12:42AM

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blackmamba.

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Insane

fungus, eh? who would've thunk?!

Feb 4 2012 1:15AM

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Canadaski

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Pro

hope it does not get out !

Feb 4 2012 1:21AM

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Billek

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Yeah.

I'm far from an expert, but I have some thoughts.

Plastic seems so artificial, that even though there are countless chemical reactions on Earth, I wouldn't expect to see any variation of plastic found in nature. This makes me wonder why there would be a fungus out there capable of breaking it down.

Is is evolution? In my opinion, doubtful.

My bet would be placed on a lucky inherent ability for the fungus to break plastic.

What do you guys think?

Feb 4 2012 1:23AM

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shr@gler

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truly incredible if this fungus can break it down. But to what? what is the end product? can we use it? is it biodegradable? whats the result?

need more info really. but what a way to clean up some of the immeasurable damage that we have caused on the environment. Truly huge potential if it can be put to good use.

Feb 4 2012 1:59AM

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