Sydney, Aug 19 - New research has uncovered rare micro-organisms in the Taupo Volcanic Zone (TVZ) of New Zealand that have not been found elsewhere in the world.

Micro-organisms are single-celled organisms so tiny you need a microscope to see them. They make up 50 percent of the world's biomass and are vital for the healthy functioning of our planet.

The three-year study was carried out by the Institute of Geological and Nuclear Sciences (GNS), New Zealand, which catalogued micro-organisms living in selected geothermal systems in the TVZ.

GNS scientist Matthew Stott said DNA sequencing work had revealed an 'extraordinary diversity' of bacterial species in the geothermal systems, the function and role of many of which were unknown.

'Geothermal micro-organisms are an important repository of national and international bio-diversity and many are being studied for medicinal and commercial applications, or are already being used for industrial processes,' said Stott.