Polar Microbiology: Recent Advances and Future Perspectives

Abstract

Polar microbiology is a promising field of research that can tell us much about the fundamental features of life. The microorganisms that inhabit Arctic and Antarctic environments are important not only because of the unique species they represent, but also because of their diverse and unusual physiological and biochemical properties. Polar microbiology is a thriving branch of science with the potential to provide new insights into a wide range of basic and applied issues in biological science. In this context, it is timely to review and highlight the progress so far and discuss exciting future perspectives. In this special issue, some of the leaders in the field describe their work, ideas and findings.