Microbial Ecology
Articles tagged with Microbial Ecology
“Not just hot water”: marine heatwaves can create toxic relationship between seagrasses and microbes
Researchers found a diverse bacterial ecosystem in seagrass habitats that was disrupted by increased water temperature, leading to reduced seagrass biomass and tolerance to climate change. The study highlights the importance of considering microbial communities in understanding marine plant responses to environmental stress.
Detailed map of life-threatening Vibrio bacteria reveals new target for treatment
Scientists have mapped the structure of Vibrio bacteria with unprecedented detail, revealing a new target for treatment. The findings could provide a solution to life-threatening infections linked to antibiotic resistance.
Connected habitats favor more diverse, disease-preventing frog microbiomes
Researchers found that connected habitats enhance the ability of amphibian skin microbiome to defend against diseases by increasing beneficial bacteria presence. This study highlights a critical link between environmental disturbance, microbial defenses, and disease dynamics.
Hot spring microbiomes could transform industrial CO2 waste into valuable products, Manchester researchers find
Researchers at the University of Manchester have found that terrestrial hot spring microbiomes can transform industrial CO2 waste into biomass and other valuable compounds. This discovery could enable the production of value-added products directly from CO2-rich waste streams, reducing emissions while generating economic value.
HIV treatment reduces accelerated biological ageing by nearly four years, landmark study shows
Researchers found that antiretroviral therapy reduces accelerated biological ageing in people with HIV by nearly four years. The plasma proteomic ageing clock tool estimated biological age and showed a statistically significant mean reduction of 3.7 years.
Could your housemates be changing your gut bacteria?
A new study from the University of East Anglia found that living with friends may alter your gut bacteria, with social closeness driving the exchange of anaerobic microbes. The research suggests that daily interactions at home, such as hugging and sharing food prep spaces, may encourage the transfer of beneficial gut bacteria.
Gut microbiomes of elephants altered by livestock in shared spaces
Research conducted by San Diego Zoo Wildlife Alliance and Save the Elephants found that elephants' gut microbiomes shifted significantly when sharing habitat with livestock. Microbes commonly found in livestock became more abundant, while beneficial microbes decreased.
Millions-of-years-old insect symbioses are surprisingly fragile
A study by the Max Planck Institute for Chemical Ecology found that an introduced bacterium can replace an ancient insect symbiont within a few generations. The beetles exhibited reduced reproduction rates, lower life expectancy, and altered immune systems after infection with the new bacterium.
Dying aquatic plants present a double-edged sword for lakes: fueling pollution while locking away carbon
A new study reveals that declining floating-leaf plants release harmful nutrients, but also trigger a microbial process that converts simple organic matter into resilient, long-term carbon storage. This process enhances the lake's ability to sequester carbon through a microbial carbon pump.
Oregano, rosemary and ‘time’: Long-term swine study shows natural-compound benefits
A long-term public study found that phytochemicals from oregano and rosemary supported favorable gut health and growth performance in weaned pigs, preserving microbial diversity to improve nutrient utilization. The natural agents outperformed antibiotic growth promoters in terms of final body weight and gain-to-feed ratio.
Microbes hold the key to unlocking biochar’s carbon storage potential in soils
A global analysis reveals that microbial communities play a decisive role in determining biochar's carbon storage potential. Biochar increases soil organic carbon by an average of 52.4%, but its effectiveness varies depending on the composition of soil microbial communities and environmental conditions.
Four University of Tennessee, Knoxville faculty elected 2025 AAAS Fellows
UT's latest AAAS Fellows are Brad Binder, Jennifer DeBruyn, and Elisabeth Schussler, recognized for their contributions to biochemistry, environmental microbiology, and ecology. Their work addresses pressing issues like plant stress, decomposition, and sustainability.
Unlocking the phosphorus puzzle: How microplastics and hydrochar change the way rice paddies feed
A new study reveals that microplastics and hydrochar can mobilize trapped phosphorus in rice paddies, triggering distinct microbial strategies. Hydrochar increased available phosphorus by 21.1%, while microplastics pushed it up by 14.2%.
Iron, carbon, and the art of toxic cleanup
Researchers at Tongji University have discovered that ferrihydrite is a highly effective mineral in trapping chromium and storing organic carbon. This finding has significant implications for environmental remediation, enabling the development of nature-based solutions to clean up contaminated mine soils while sequestering carbon.
Turning crop waste into climate solutions: Biochar reduces greenhouse gas emissions in bamboo forests
A new study reveals that biochar can significantly reduce nitrous oxide emissions from forest soils, shifting them from a source to a potential climate solution. Biochar was found to suppress key microbial genes responsible for producing N2O while increasing the abundance of microbes that convert it into harmless nitrogen gas.
Microbial clues uncover how wild songbirds respond to stress
A study by Florida Atlantic University researchers has uncovered the impact of stress on wild songbirds, finding that even mild challenges can alter the gut microbiome, leading to changes in health indicators such as beak color and stress hormone levels.
Antibiotic resistance can vary depending on where the bacteria live
Research shows that bacteria harbor resistance genes may respond differently to antibiotics under non-standard conditions. This affects treatment efficacy and contributes to understanding antimicrobial resistance development and spread. Understanding these variations is crucial to combat global public health threats.
Biodegradable mulch isn’t disappearing as expected, new study warns
A new study reveals that plant roots selectively accelerate the degradation of large biodegradable microplastic particles in soil, but also accumulate phytotoxic byproducts near crops. The findings challenge assumptions about biodegradable plastics' harmless breakdown in agricultural soils.
University of Houston scientist helps rethink microbial future of space travel
A global team of scientists, led by University of Houston microbiologist Madhan Tirumalai, has identified the critical role of biofilms in human space exploration. Biofilms could influence astronaut health, drug delivery and space agriculture, while also posing risks to astronaut health.
A new ecological model highlights how fluctuating environments push microbes to work together
Researchers develop mathematical model to capture microbial cooperation and community stability, predicting the outcome of experiments with E. coli strains. The model's results show that auxotrophs contribute to stable communities by trading essential nutrients and limiting growth.
UNIGE and NTU Singapore scientists find that silencing bacteria can worsen heart infections
Researchers found that silencing bacteria can worsen heart infections by promoting aggressive biofilm growth and reducing antibiotic effectiveness. The study highlights the need for targeted therapeutic strategies against infectious endocarditis.
Newly discovered virus linked to colorectal cancer
Researchers from the University of Southern Denmark have identified a new virus in a common gut bacterium that appears more frequently in patients with colorectal cancer. The study demonstrates a statistical association between the virus and colorectal cancer, but its role is still unclear.
Taxiing through the gut: Formic acid in the microbiome
Blautia luti produces formic acid as an electron taxi, bypassing the energetically costly production of hydrogen. The bacterium detoxifies formic acid via a special metabolic pathway, linked to sugar breakdown and acetic acid production.
Genes from corn's wild ancestor change soil microbial community, improve sustainability
New research from the University of Illinois has found that corn's wild ancestor genes can inhibit nitrifying and denitrifying bacteria, reducing nitrogen loss and greenhouse gas emissions. The study shows reductions in nitrification of up to 50% in field and greenhouse trials, with potential huge impacts on sustainable agriculture.
Study finds multiple sources of pollution in Virginia's Lake Anna
A University of Virginia study reveals phosphorus pollution in Lake Anna comes from multiple sources, including homes and abandoned mines. Elevated levels of arsenic, lead, and copper were found near mining sites, highlighting the need for broader strategies to address nutrient and metal pollution.
Pesticides significantly affect soil life and biodiversity
A Europe-wide study reveals that pesticides have substantial effects on beneficial soil organisms, including mycorrhizal fungi and nematodes. The contamination has a major impact on soil biodiversity, highlighting the need to adapt current pesticide assessments and regulations.
Study sheds new light on what drives evolution of gut microbiomes
Researchers found that six species exhibited little to no evidence of phylosymbiosis, while five closely related bovids showed patterns consistent with the concept. Drier environments may reveal phylosymbiosis due to reduced microbial diversity.
Sourdough starters reveal a recipe for predicting microbial species survival
Researchers at Tufts University used sourdough starters to test a pairwise interaction model that reliably forecasts how up to nine microbial species will interact. The study provides insights into predicting microbial coexistence, improving food safety, and informing human health.
Positive interactions dominate among marine microbes, six-year study reveals
A six-year study reveals that marine microbes interact more frequently with benefits than harm, challenging traditional views of ocean ecosystems. The research found that warmer temperatures increased positive interactions and changed the dynamics of keystone microbial species.
Forest biomass becomes surprise carbon hero—if industry can cut costs and scale up
A data-rich review suggests that forest biological resources can offset up to 750 gigatonnes of CO₂ by mid-century if processing efficiency rises and green premiums fall. Engineered beams, biochar, and bioethanol can store carbon for decades, offering a 74% lifecycle GHG cut versus gasoline.
Fungus turns bark beetles’ defenses against them
Researchers discovered that an insect-pathogenic fungus Beauveria bassiana can turn the defensive substances of bark beetles into more toxic aglycones. These aglycones serve as an effective defense against fungi and increase fungal infestation, particularly in beetles with high phenol content.
From straw to soil harmony: International team reveals how biochar supercharges carbon-smart farming
A new international study discovers that combining biochar with straw can reduce carbon emissions, boost soil health, and encourage microbes to work together. The research bridges Moscow and Guangzhou, delivering one of the clearest pictures yet of how organic amendments shape the hidden world beneath our feet.
Life on lava: How microbes colonize new habitats
Research reveals that single-celled organisms are among the first to colonize newly formed lava environments, thriving in scarce water and nutrient conditions. As diversity stabilizes over time, rainwater plays a critical role in shaping microbial communities, suggesting an unexpected link between weather phenomena and life on Earth.
Biochar reshapes hidden soil microbes that capture carbon dioxide in farmland
New research reveals biochar's impact on autotrophic soil microbes that fix carbon dioxide through the Calvin cycle. In paddy soils, these microbes are active capturing carbon dioxide, while in upland soils, microbial biomass and labile carbon pools play a larger role.
Unseen allies: symbiotic bacteria help clean wastewater, but there is a catch
Scientists discovered 14 new species of denitrifying endosymbionts in wastewater, which contribute to nitrate removal and help hosts generate energy. However, one species produces nitrous oxide, a potent greenhouse gas, with widespread global distribution.
Scientists identify the most effective tools for capturing airborne microbes in indoor environments
A new study evaluates four microbial aerosol samplers and finds that membrane filtration produces the highest collection efficiency for particles at or below one micrometer. The study suggests that choosing the right sampler is crucial for accurate airborne pathogen detection.
Roundworms discovered in Great Salt Lake are new to science
A new species of roundworms, Diplolaimelloides woaabi, has been discovered in the Great Salt Lake, characterized by its unique features and potential role in the lake's ecosystem. The discovery raises questions about how the worms arrived in the lake and their adaptation to highly saline environments.
Urea: The hidden fuel for ocean microbes
A new study reveals that ammonia-oxidizing archaea rely on urea as a nitrogen source, enabling them to flourish in open ocean waters. This discovery challenges existing understanding of nitrification rates and highlights the crucial role of urea in sustaining ocean productivity.
In pneumonia’s tug-of-war, lung microbiome could tip the balance
A study found that lung microbiomes play a significant role in pneumonia, with patients having oral-like pneumotypes more likely to recover. The researchers identified four distinct microbial patterns, or 'pneumotypes,' associated with different types of pneumonia.
Social lives of viruses affect antiviral resistance
A study found that viral interactions inside cells influence antiviral resistance outcomes, while a less potent drug may ironically improve its future utility by promoting social interactions in viruses. The researchers suggest a trade-off between hitting the virus hard and allowing resistance to rise.
The ship-timber beetle's fungal partner: more than just a food source
A symbiotic fungus helps the ship-timber beetle survive by accumulating nutrients and producing antimicrobial compounds that inhibit competing fungi. The fungus also adapts to its acidic environment by acidifying it with acetic acid, thriving at low pH levels.
light vs. dark: Team discovers multicellular cyanobacteria activate different genes by day and by night
Researchers found that filamentous cyanobacteria regulate their metabolism during the day and genome repair at night, revealing a new circadian rhythm in these microorganisms. Their study also uncovered diversity-generating retroelements and mobile genetic elements active throughout the day-night cycle.
Emerging pollutants threaten efficiency of wastewater treatment: New review highlights urgent research needs
The study highlights how emerging pollutants such as pharmaceuticals, microplastics, and industrial chemicals interfere with biological phosphorus removal processes in wastewater treatment plants. The review emphasizes the need for updated strategies and experimental designs to address these new contaminants.
Researchers identify mangrove tree stems as previously underestimated methane source offsetting blue carbon benefits
A new study finds that mangrove tree stems release significant amounts of methane, offsetting up to 27.5% of the blue carbon sequestered by mangroves. The researchers' comprehensive database provides a global-scale assessment of stem methane emissions.
Grassland degradation reshapes relationship between biodiversity and ecosystem multifunctionality
A new study reveals that grassland degradation increases soil microbial diversity while reducing plant richness, leading to a decline in ecosystem functioning and multifunctionality. The research highlights the critical importance of conserving soil microbial communities for sustainable restoration of degraded grasslands.
New study reveals underestimated pathway for arsenic pollution in water
Scientists uncovered a risk to freshwater quality as lake and river sediment shift from trapping toxic arsenic to releasing it after submerged macrophytes die. The decline of these vital underwater plants can change how arsenic moves through aquatic environments, posing an unanticipated threat to water safety.
The greenhouse gas trapped in the Black Sea
Researchers found that nitrogen oxide production is outpaced by consumption, resulting in little emissions from the Black Sea. The study identified microorganisms responsible for the turnover of this potent greenhouse gas, highlighting the importance of further research on nitrous oxide dynamics in marine environments.
Five science-backed ways to make cheese production greener
A literature review of cheese fermentation and ripening identified five underused, evidence-based measures to improve efficiency and sustainability in cheese production. By exploiting whey and encapsulating lactic acid bacteria, dairies can reduce waste and optimize production processes.
Fats provide clues to life at its limits in the deep sea
Researchers used lipid biomarker analyses to study survival strategies of microorganisms in extreme deep-sea ecosystems. They found that methane- and sulfate-metabolizing microbes can thrive in environments with high pH values and low organic carbon concentrations.
How climate-damaging nitrous oxide forms in the ocean
Research reveals that microorganisms in ocean hypoxic zones convert nitrate into nitrous oxide to generate energy, producing this climate-damaging gas. The study's findings suggest that organic material in these zones increases the oxygen tolerance of bacteria, allowing for more regions of nitrous oxide production.
Biochar shows big promise for climate-friendly soil management
Researchers found that biochar improves soil health by increasing microbial diversity, capturing carbon, and enhancing nutrient cycling. Biochar acts as a long-lasting carbon sink, storing carbon for hundreds to thousands of years.
Plastic in the soil, but not as we know it: Biodegradable microplastics rewire carbon storage in farm fields
A two-year field study reveals that biodegradable microplastics, often considered eco-friendly, are reshaping farmfield soils in unexpected ways. Bioplastics PLA reduced stable carbon compounds by 32% while boosting microbial necromass and fungal-dominated soil ecosystems.
New biochar technology promises breakthrough in soil clean-up and crop safety
Phosphorus-modified biochar dramatically reduces heavy metal pollution, improving soil quality and microbial communities. The innovation offers a promising approach for cleaning up contaminated farmland and securing the food supply.
Natural antimicrobial drugs found in pollen could help us protect bee colonies from infection
Researchers have discovered that the same beneficial bacteria occur in pollen stores of honeybee colonies and on nearby plants, producing compounds that kill pathogens of bees and plants. These endophytes can be used to develop new treatments for crops and hives.
Biogas slurry boosts biochar’s climate benefits by reshaping soil microbes
Researchers found that pairing biochar with biogas slurry reduces CO2 emissions and alters soil microbial communities, enhancing carbon sequestration. However, the combination also increases CH4 emissions, highlighting a tradeoff.
Hot springs in Japan give insight into ancient microbial life on Earth
A recent study from Japan explores ancient microbial life on Earth by analyzing iron-rich hot springs that mimic the chemistry of early oceans. Microaerophilic iron-oxidising bacteria were found to be dominant, using ferrous iron as an energy source before photosynthesis became dominant.
Biohybrids: Pioneering sustainable chemical synthesis at the energy-environment frontier
Researchers develop biohybrid synthesis systems that combine living cells with advanced materials to produce valuable chemicals from CO2, water, and sunlight. These systems leverage various energy sources and have shown significant progress in recent years.
Biochar boosts black soil health and crop yields, study finds
A long-term study in Northeast China's fertile black soils found that biochar improves soil health, stabilizes microbial communities, and increases crop yields when applied at the right rate. The optimal application rate enhances microbial stability and organic matter content, leading to better yields.
Warming temps alone fail to trigger increased CO2 levels from soil
A study reveals that warming temperatures alone do not lead to increased carbon dioxide emissions from soil. Instead, adding more carbon and nutrients like nitrogen and phosphorus triggers higher CO2 levels released from the soil. This finding highlights the crucial role of microbes in regulating soil carbon cycling.