biometrit

Biometrit is a term used in biomineralization studies to describe a class of biomineral composites produced by microorganisms, in which an inorganic mineral phase is interlaced with an organic matrix synthesized or assembled by microbial communities. It is not universally recognized as a distinct mineral species; rather, biometrit denotes materials that display mineral-organic composites rather than a fixed chemical formula. The inorganic component can include calcium carbonate, silica, or phosphate minerals, while the organic component comprises extracellular polymeric substances, proteins, and filamentous organics produced by microbes.

Formation occurs in environments where active microbial communities induce or mediate mineral precipitation, such as microbial mats, sediment pore waters, or biofilm-rich interfaces. Mechanisms include active enzymatic precipitation, ion transport and stabilization by organic matrices, and entrapment of organic matter during crystal growth.

Structure tends to be microcrystalline and highly porous, with physical properties governed by the specific mineral phase and the density of the organic network. Biometrit can exhibit a spectrum of textures from layered to fibrous, depending on microbial consortia and geochemical conditions. Occurrence is reported in modern sedimentary settings and in laboratory cultures designed to study biomineralization; it is not a standard category in conventional mineral classifications.

Potential significance lies in understanding early Earth carbon cycling, developing bio-inspired materials, and exploring bioremediation pathways. Related topics include biomineralization, microbialites, and biogenic minerals.