A Developing Symbiosis: Enabling Cross-Talk Between Ecologists and Microbiome Scientists

Area of Science:

• Ecology
• Microbiome Science

Background:

• Effective communication is vital for cross-discipline collaborations.
• Ecology provides theoretical frameworks for microbiome studies.
• Discordant use of ecological terms in microbiome research hinders interdisciplinary understanding.

Purpose of the Study:

• To define key ecological terms and concepts as used in both ecology and microbiome studies.
• To provide historical context and examples for these terms.
• To promote a common lexicon for improved cross-talk between ecologists and microbiome researchers.

Main Methods:

• Review and definition of ecological terms: Biomes, Diversity, Symbiosis, and Succession.
• Analysis of historical context and application in microbiome research.
• Consideration of relevant research methods.

Main Results:

• Definitions provided for Biomes (including microbiomes), Diversity (richness, abundance, biogeography), Symbiosis (parasitism to mutualism), and Succession (including alternative stable states and r/K-selection).
• Highlighted discrepancies in term usage between traditional ecology and microbiome studies.
• Emphasized the need for precise definitions to bridge disciplinary gaps.

Conclusions:

• A unified lexicon is essential for effective collaboration between ecologists and microbiome researchers.
• Clarifying ecological term definitions facilitates the emergence of new concepts.
• Adoption of precise definitions will enhance the integration of ecological theory into microbiome science.