China builds world’s largest database of deep-sea bacteria

A Chinese government agency has collected 3,400 bacteria species in an effort to promote the study and conservation of the oceans.

The database of deep-sea bacteria is the world’s largest, containing a total of 22,000 microbes, the state-funded newspaper People’s Daily reported on 24 July.

It is a sign that the Chinese government is increasing its focus on deep-sea exploration, Sun Shuxian, the deputy director of the State Oceanic Administration, told reporters on 22 July.