Multitrophic microbial interactions for eco- and agro-biotechnological processes: theory and practice

Area of Science:

• Microbial Ecology
• Ecology
• Biotechnology

Background:

• Multitrophic microbial loop interactions (protists, bacteria, viruses) underpin critical eco- and agro-biotechnological processes.
• These processes include bioremediation, wastewater treatment, and plant growth promotion, impacting ecosystem functioning.
• The context-dependency of these microbial interactions in biotechnological and ecosystem processes is understudied.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate the context-dependency of multitrophic microbial interactions in biotechnological and ecosystem processes.
• To advance the understanding of eco-evolutionary dynamics governing microbial interactions.
• To inform the development of microbe-based biotechnologies and test ecological theories.

Main Methods:

• This study proposes a theory-driven research approach.
• Focuses on analyzing patterns and functioning of microbial interactions within specific contexts.
• Emphasizes testing ecological theories in the context of changing microbial niches and diversity.

Main Results:

• The context-dependency of microbial interactions significantly influences biotechnological and ecosystem process outcomes.
• Eco-evolutionary processes are critical for understanding the stability and function of microbial communities.
• Current ecological theories may require refinement to manage microbial resources under environmental change.

Conclusions:

• Understanding context-specific microbial interactions is vital for optimizing bioremediation, wastewater treatment, and plant growth promotion.
• Theory-driven research is essential for advancing microbe-based biotechnologies.
• Ecological theories must adapt to address microbial diversity loss and altered niches due to climate and land use change.