As a result, 968 bacterial species were found, 98% of which are currently unknown to science. Scientists are worried about the finding, as melting glaciers will release about 1,000 new species of bacteria, most of which can be pathogenic.
Due to the fact that organisms existing today are not immune to ancient microbes, the release of the latter could lead to epidemics and pandemics. In addition, the danger of these bacteria to humans and animals lies in their entry into rivers and streams. Concerns arose that future melting glaciers could be part of rivers feeding densely populated areas in India and China.
Source: Ferra
