Blue at the edge

by Mauricio Lopez-Portillo Masson, Michael D. Fox, Peter J. Lammers, Kyle J. Lauersen
Trends Talk Year: 2026 DOI: https://doi.org/10.1016/j.tibtech.2026.04.012

Extra Information

An interview discussing a painting by PhD Student Mauricio Masson, using phycocyanin containin total soluble protein extract from Galdieria yellowstonensis as a paint. This invited piece is linked to Mauricio's TIBTECH article "Elevated carbon dioxide stimulates efficient organic carbon consumption for the unicellular alga Galdieria" 10.1016/j.tibtech.2025.10.018.

Abstract

Trends in Biotechnology

Trends Talk

‘Blue at the Edge’ was created using C-phycocyanin (C-PC)-containing total soluble protein extract from extremophilic Galdieria. The painting portrays a moonlit desert, a quiet terrain that appears lifeless, but in a vibrant living blue made from algae. This visual contrasts the acidic, high-temperature environments where Galdieria thrives—inhospitable habitats that actually sustain metabolically versatile life. This alga thrives under elevated CO2 in complete darkness and very low pH on a range of sugars, including those recovered from chocolate production. By using its pigment, grown on food-industry byproducts, to create this desert scene, the work connects metabolic resilience, perception, and sustainability. Biotechnology becomes both a source of renewable biomass and a reminder that life persists at the edge.