bacteria

Out of the 449 sites regularly tested this summer, 93% met minimum standards for levels of bacteria in the water, linked to sewage spills, agricultural pollution and other factors.

When wheat roots release this extra compound into the surrounding soil, it assists specific bacteria that can convert nitrogen from the air into a form that nearby plants can absorb.

These cells are usually known for acting like tiny cleanup crews that remove bacteria, dead cells, and other unwanted material.

In the new study, the researchers protected the bacteria by enclosing them, along with magnetic particles, inside small droplets of sodium alginate, a thickening ingredient commonly found in foods.

Meanwhile, many other landfills are releasing unsafe amounts of methane, an odorless gas produced by bacteria that break down organic waste.