Bacteria in your water is not usually considered a good thing – unless, well, you happen to be a scientist trying to develop a new way to create diesel gas. This happens to be the case for scientists in California, which according to the New York Times, recently discovered a way to genetically alter a bacteria to convert sunlight and carbon dioxide into ingredients found in diesel fuel. The scientists note this new bacteria can be grown in water that is not usable for drinking or farming, a definite environmental plus. It can also provide a pathway for making a diesel replacement that skips several cumbersome and expensive steps used in existing methods. Time will tell if this new bacteria-in-water idea sinks or swims.