Sic transit algae: biofuels, via Ancient Rome

In the UK, researchers at the University of Bath are studying seven different strains of algae found in Roman baths to try to find ones that will survive at higher temperatures while producing high levels of fats for biodiesel production.

Most algae grows best in temperatures of around 25c, the same as food crops, so researchers want to find strains that could survive and thrive where there is less competition for land like deserts or arid areas.