CESAM researchers are the authors of the science communication work “PAC-Monas: Pseudomonas as a bioremediation agent for metals in soil”, recently published in Cartoons de Microbiologia, an initiative of the Portuguese Society of Microbiology aimed at communicating science in a visual and accessible way to different audiences.
The work, authored by Sara Peixoto, Sara Parreira, Mafalda Fernandes, Rita Silva and Susana Loureiro, presents the potential of bacteria of the genus Pseudomonas as agents for the bioremediation of metal-contaminated soils. Through illustration and language aimed at a non-specialist audience, the cartoon explains how these microorganisms can help mitigate the effects of contamination and support the recovery of soil health and functionality.
Starting from the issue of historical soil contamination by metals, which is particularly relevant in regions with a strong industrial legacy, such as Estarreja, the work explores the ability of Pseudomonas to adapt to contaminated environments. These bacteria possess mechanisms that enable them to survive in the presence of different metals and can contribute to the bioremediation of contaminated soils.
The work also highlights some of the functions performed by these bacteria in terrestrial ecosystems, including their role in nutrient mobility and cycling, the promotion of plant growth, and processes that may contribute to restoring biodiversity, balance and ecosystem health.
The cartoon features contributions from Sara Peixoto and Rita Silva, researchers at CESAM/DBIO; Sara Parreira and Mafalda Fernandes, students at DBIO; and Susana Loureiro, professor at the Department of Biology of the University of Aveiro and researcher at CESAM.
The concept was developed by Sara Peixoto, while Sara Peixoto and Sara Parreira were responsible for the graphic design. Mafalda Fernandes, Sara Peixoto and Rita Silva contributed to the text, and the scientific review was carried out by Sara Peixoto, Rita Silva and Susana Loureiro.
The publication of “PAC-Monas” reinforces the importance of science communication as a bridge between research and society, helping to increase scientific literacy and raise awareness among different audiences about the role of microorganisms in the recovery of contaminated ecosystems.
The cartoon “PAC-Monas: Pseudomonas as a bioremediation agent for metals in soil” is available on the Cartoons de Microbiologia website of the Portuguese Society of Microbiology.