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Diversity, ecology and evolution of Archaea
Brett J Baker1, Valerie De Anda2, Kiley W Seitz2
1Department of Marine Science, Marine Science Institute, University of Texas Austin, Port Aransas, TX, USA. brett_baker@utexas.edu.
Nature Microbiology
|May 6, 2020
Summary
Genomic sequencing reveals vast, uncultured archaeal diversity crucial for global nutrient cycles. This expands our view of life's tree and eukaryotic origins.
Area of Science:
- Microbiology
- Genomics
- Evolutionary Biology
Background:
- Limited knowledge of archaeal biology compared to bacteria.
- Historically relied on culturing and single-gene surveys, missing most archaeal phyla.
- Only six of 27 proposed archaeal phyla have cultured representatives.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review how genomic sequencing and computational approaches are revolutionizing archaeal biology.
- To discuss insights into metabolic capabilities and ecological roles of Archaea.
- To explore how increased archaeal diversity impacts our understanding of the tree of life and eukaryote origins.
Main Methods:
- Genomic sequencing of environmental samples to recover genomes of uncultured archaeal groups.
- Long-term enrichment studies.
- In situ measurements.
Main Results:
- Description of several new, globally distributed archaeal phyla.
- Identification of Archaea as predominant organisms in many environments.
- Insights into metabolic capabilities and ecological significance of Archaea.
Conclusions:
- Genomic advances are transforming the study of Archaea.
- Archaea play critical roles in global carbon and nutrient cycles.
- Increased archaeal diversity provides new perspectives on early evolution and eukaryote origins.
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