The bacterium Burkholderia pseudomallei, which causes the serious disease melioidosis, is normally found in tropical and subtropical environments but is now present in parts of Central America, Mexico, Puerto Rico — and even Texas. UT’s Planet Texas 2050 grand challenge team is studying the bacterium Burkholderia pseudomallei by examining regional soil, water, weather, and land use data, as well as other risk factors, to identify potential ecological niches in Texas where Burkholderia might thrive.