An Interpretation, Survey, and Outlook on Microbial Macroecology

Area of Science:

• Ecology
• Microbial Ecology
• Macroecology

Background:

• Predictive ecological theories require repeatable, robust empirical patterns.
• Macroecology, the study of ecological patterns across large spatial scales, has historically focused on macroscopic organisms.
• Applying macroecological principles to microorganisms presents challenges in understanding fundamental relationships between patterns, processes, and goals.

Purpose of the Study:

• To interpret microbial macroecology by aligning microbial life science research with macroecological themes.
• To survey common microbial macroecological patterns, distinguishing universal patterns from those reflecting temporal dynamics.
• To highlight efforts toward developing a minimal, predictive model for ecological dynamics in microbial systems.

Main Methods:

• Mapping microbial life science specificities onto prominent macroecological themes.
• Surveying and categorizing common microbial macroecological patterns.
• Reviewing existing literature and research efforts in microbial macroecology.

Main Results:

• Identified key macroecological themes applicable to microbial research.
• Cataloged universal and temporally dynamic microbial macroecological patterns.
• Emphasized the ongoing pursuit of predictive models in microbial ecology.

Conclusions:

• Microbial macroecology offers a framework for understanding microbial community structure and dynamics.
• Further investigation into microbial life's facets is needed for comprehensive macroecological understanding.
• This perspective provides a foundation for diverse researchers entering the field of microbial macroecology.