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Microbiomes in an acidic rock-water cave system.

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Microbial communities in a former alum mine, characterized by high carbon and low pH, were studied. Fungi, particularly Mucoromycota and Mortierellomycota, unexpectedly dominated this acidic ecosystem.

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Area of Science:

  • Microbiology
  • Geomicrobiology
  • Environmental Science

Background:

  • Belowground ecosystems in mines harbor unique microbial communities.
  • Former alum mines present extreme conditions like low pH and high metal concentrations due to geological processes such as pyrite oxidation.
  • Understanding microbial life in such environments is crucial for biogeochemical cycling and bioremediation.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To investigate the microbial biodiversity of a carbon-rich, low-pH alum mine.
  • To identify microorganisms, particularly fungi, thriving under extreme acidic and metal-rich conditions.
  • To explore the potential role of fungi in mineral mobilization within the mine ecosystem.

Main Methods:

  • DNA-based (molecular) and cultivation-dependent techniques were employed.
  • Samples were collected from black slate rock, secondary mineralization phases, and seepage water.
  • Laboratory cultivation mimicked the mine's environmental conditions (low temperature, low pH, oxic).

Main Results:

  • The mine ecosystem exhibited extreme conditions (pH 2.6-3.7) due to pyrite oxidation, leading to high iron and sulfate concentrations.
  • An unexpected predominance of fungi, including Mucoromycota and Mortieromycota, was observed.
  • Fungal cultures were successfully isolated, primarily from iron phosphate mineral phases, suggesting a role in phosphate mobilization.

Conclusions:

  • The studied alum mine supports a specialized microbial community adapted to harsh acidic and metal-rich conditions.
  • Fungi play a significant role in this ecosystem, potentially contributing to mineral transformations.
  • The findings highlight the resilience and metabolic capabilities of extremophilic fungi.