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Mapping environmental microbiomes across an entire country
Benjamin I Jelen1, Brett J Baker1
1Department of Integrative Biology, University of Texas at Austin, Austin, TX 78712, USA.
Trends in Microbiology
|March 19, 2026
Summary
A Danish atlas reveals nationwide microbial diversity patterns. Nitrifying communities vary in scale and composition between natural and disturbed habitats, highlighting ecosystem differences.
Area of Science:
- Ecology
- Microbiology
- Environmental Science
Background:
- Microbial diversity is crucial for ecosystem function and resilience.
- Large-scale spatial data on microbial communities are scarce.
- Understanding microbial spatial patterns is essential for conservation and management.
Purpose of the Study:
- To create a nationwide atlas of environmental microbiomes in Denmark.
- To reveal spatial patterns of microbial diversity across Denmark.
- To compare the scale and composition of nitrifying communities in natural versus disturbed habitats.
Main Methods:
- Environmental DNA sequencing.
- Spatial analysis of microbial communities.
- Comparison of diversity metrics (gamma diversity) between habitat types.
Main Results:
- A comprehensive Danish microbiome atlas was developed.
- Nationwide patterns of microbial diversity were identified.
- Significant differences in the scale and composition of nitrifying communities were observed between natural and disturbed habitats.
Conclusions:
- The study provides a valuable baseline for microbial diversity in Denmark.
- Habitat type significantly influences microbial community structure and diversity.
- The findings have implications for understanding ecosystem resilience and management strategies.
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