When glaciers retreat, primitive bacteria rebuild barren land

The mystery of fertility in newly exposed land, covered for thousands of years by glaciers, is now partially solved by findings of cyanobacteria. These primitive microbes quickly colonize the site, boost carbon deposits through photosynthesis and fix nitrogen in the soil. They regenerate the earth at an astonishing rate, preparing it for the spread of new life and aggregating soil particles with a gluey substance that prevents landslides and erosion. Full story: New Scientist