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Microbial community and extracellular polymeric substance dynamics in arid-zone temporary pan ecosystems
Tafara F Bute1, Adam Wyness2, Ryan J Wasserman3
1Department of Zoology and Entomology, Rhodes University, Makhanda 6140, South Africa.
The Science of the Total Environment
|May 9, 2024
Summary
Microbial extracellular polymeric substances (EPS) dynamics in arid temporary pans show higher production during wet seasons. Extended dry periods threaten these vital processes and biodiversity in temporary wetlands.
Area of Science:
- Ecology
- Microbiology
- Environmental Science
Background:
- Microbial extracellular polymeric substances (EPS) are crucial in sediment ecology, yet research predominantly focuses on the Northern Hemisphere and permanent systems.
- This study addresses a gap by investigating EPS dynamics in arid Australian temporary pans, characterized by fluctuating wet and dry periods.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the dynamics of microbial EPS (carbohydrates and proteins) in arid temporary pan sediments.
- To evaluate microbial community distribution patterns in relation to seasons and sediment depth.
- To understand the influence of hydroperiods on EPS production and associated microbial functions.
Main Methods:
- Utilized colorimetric methods to quantify carbohydrates and proteins.
- Employed sequence-based metagenomics to analyze microbial community composition and function.
- Assessed seasonal variations (hot-wet vs. cool-dry) and depth-related differences in EPS and microbial communities.
Main Results:
- Carbohydrates were more abundant than proteins, with higher EPS production during wet seasons (Carbohydrate mean 102 μg g⁻¹, Protein mean 65 μg g⁻¹) compared to dry seasons (Carbohydrate mean 73 μg g⁻¹, Protein mean 26 μg g⁻¹).
- Microbial communities, dominated by heat-tolerant genera like Firmicutes, Actinobacteria, and Proteobacteria, showed distinct patterns between seasons.
- High levels of denitrification were observed, with EPS production and metagenome functions strongly correlated with water availability.
Conclusions:
- EPS production and microbial functions in arid temporary pans are significantly influenced by seasonal water availability.
- Extended dry periods pose a threat to microbially mediated processes and biodiversity in these temporary wetland ecosystems.
- Findings highlight the ecological importance of temporary wetlands and the potential impacts of climate change-induced drying.
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