Application of Archaea Membrane Lipids in Biological Geology

Abstract:

Archaea, as the third life form distinguished from eukaryotes and prokaryotes, plays an important role in indicating geological environment and revealing the global elements cycle. It has become one of the most important topics in the field of biogeochemical presently. The paper reviewed the application of the archaea membrane in geological research, including the deficiency and prospect of the so far studies in the area.

Key words:Archaea, Phospholipid fatty acid (PLFA), Glycerol dialkyl glycerol tetraethers (GDGTs), Geological environment