We're used to having rare and unique endemic species in Aotearoa such as plants, birds, insects but not microorganisms.
Microorganisms can move through water, soils and ride air currents so finding one that is endemic and stranded in New Zealand would be a world first.
But University of Canterbury Scientist, Professor Matthew Stott, has done exactly that.
He has identified an endemic genus of geothermal microorganisms. He explains what he's discovered to Jesse.
Microbiology lecturer Professor Matthew Stott researching microorganisms at Champagne Pool, Waiotapu, near Rotorua. Photo: supplied
