biogénico

Biogênico is a Portuguese adjective meaning "biogenic" and is used to describe substances, processes, or features that originate from living organisms. The term comes from the Greek roots "bios" (life) and "genikos" (produced by), and entered scientific Portuguese in the early 20th century. It is commonly employed in fields such as chemistry, geology, and environmental science to distinguish materials that arise from biological activity from those formed through purely inorganic or volcanic processes.

In chemistry, biogênico refers to the formation of compounds through metabolic or biochemical pathways, such as the synthesis of biogênic acids or gases. In geology and petrology, it characterizes rocks and mineral deposits that have been influenced by biological agents, for example, the biogênic calcite in limestone formed by marine organisms. Environmental science uses the term to discuss biogênic sources of atmospheric gases and carbon cycling, distinguishing anthropogenic emissions from natural biogênic emissions linked to forests, wetlands, or the ocean.

The adjective also appears in compound terms like “biogênico e biogequímico,” indicating a dual biogenic and biogeochemical role in a given system. When applied to materials, biogênico implies that the substance retains a trace of its biological origin, which can be detected through isotopic signatures or organic biomarkers. Understanding biogênicos is crucial for assessing natural carbon budgets, reconstructing past ecosystems, and developing sustainable bioproducts, making the concept an integral part of contemporary earth sciences and biotechnology.