Characterization of prokaryotic communities in Puerto Rican caves using 16S rDNA amplicon sequencing
Natalia Pérez-Santos1, Sebastian Javier Borrero-Villabol1, Rene Nieves-Morales1
1Microbial Biotechnology and Bioprospecting Laboratory, Biology Department, University of Puerto Rico, Mayagüez, USA.
Microbiology Resource Announcements
|June 10, 2025
Summary
This study explored microbial diversity in Puerto Rican caves using 16S rDNA analysis. Distinct prokaryotic communities were identified, offering insights into subterranean ecosystems and their conservation potential.
Area of Science:
- Cave microbiology
- Subterranean ecosystems
- Microbial ecology
Background:
- Cave ecosystems harbor unique microbial communities adapted to oligotrophic and extreme conditions.
- Understanding prokaryotic diversity is crucial for characterizing subterranean environments.
- Puerto Rico's northern limestone karst belt offers a unique setting for studying cave microbial life.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the prokaryotic diversity within seven cave systems in Puerto Rico.
- To characterize the microbial communities inhabiting the northern limestone karst belt.
- To provide a foundation for future research in cave microbiology and conservation.
Main Methods:
- DNA extraction from cave samples.
- Amplification and sequencing of the 16S ribosomal DNA (rDNA) gene.
- Bioinformatic analysis for microbial profiling and diversity assessment.
Main Results:
- Identification of distinct prokaryotic communities across the studied cave ecosystems.
- Characterization of microbial assemblages unique to the subterranean environment.
- Significant variations in microbial composition were observed between different caves.
Conclusions:
- Cave environments in Puerto Rico harbor diverse and specialized microbial communities.
- The findings contribute to the understanding of subterranean microbial ecology.
- This research supports potential applications in environmental monitoring and biotechnology.
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