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Phoronids and their tubes harbor distinct microbiomes compared to surrounding sediment
Cassandra L Ettinger1,2,3, Jonathan A Eisen2,3,4
1Department of Microbiology and Plant Pathology, University of California, Riverside, CA, United States.
Biorxiv : the Preprint Server for Biology
|June 5, 2026
Summary
The microbiome of the marine animal Phoronopsis harmeri and its tubes is less diverse than surrounding sediment. Microbial communities associated with these animals may play a role in sulfur cycling.
Area of Science:
- Marine biology
- Microbial ecology
- Invertebrate zoology
Background:
- Phoronids are marine filter feeders that build tubes and produce chemical defenses.
- Tube-building invertebrates often host unique microbial communities, especially in sulfur-rich environments.
- The microbiome of phoronids remains largely undescribed.
Purpose of the Study:
- To characterize the microbiome composition of the phoronid Phoronopsis harmeri.
- To compare the microbial communities of phoronids, their tubes, and surrounding sediment.
- To investigate the potential role of associated microbes in sulfur cycling.
Main Methods:
- 16S rRNA gene amplicon sequencing
- Metagenomic sequencing
- Bioinformatic analysis of microbial communities
Main Results:
- The phoronid microbiome was dominated by Campylobacterales, Desulfobulbales, and Desulfobacterales.
- Microbiomes of phoronids and tubes showed lower diversity and distinct structure compared to sediment.
- Preliminary evidence suggests associated taxa participate in sulfur cycling pathways.
Conclusions:
- Phoronopsis harmeri harbors a distinct microbiome.
- Microbial communities associated with phoronids and their tubes are less diverse than the surrounding sediment.
- These microbial communities may be involved in sulfur cycling in marine sediments.
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