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"We characterized the mechanism of bactericide as through shredding of the bacterial cells into fragments," Holder said.

Experiments with compounds found in the Martian soil show that they are turned into potent bactericides by the ultraviolet light that bathes the planet, effectively sterilising the upper layers of the dusty landscape.

The bactericides have been used successfully for decades to fight bacterial infections on pear and apple trees and other crops.

Ink as a bactericide is less known, but worth consideration.

Dr. Crane: Yes, DDT is broken down and it is not a fungicide and it is not a bactericide.