Physics Maths Engineering
Distribution and Metabolic Activities of Marine Microbes in Response to Natural and Anthropogenic Stressors
Gabriella Caruso,
Kai Ziervogel
Peer Reviewed
Related Subjects
Abstract
As a consequence of climate change and increased human pressure, aquatic ecosystems are experiencing natural and anthropogenic stressors and events such as temperature warming, acidification, biodiversity loss, and degraded water quality. To understand the response of marine ecosystems to environmental and anthropogenic pressures, integration of long-term and large-scale monitoring of marine communities with mapping of habitats and ecosystem services was previously recommended.
Summary
The study examines how marine microbial communities respond to various natural and human-induced stressors, such as climate change and pollution. It highlights the crucial role these microbes play in maintaining ecosystem health and emphasizes the need for further research to understand their adaptive mechanisms.
Key Questions
What roles do marine microbes play in the ecosystem?
Marine microbes are essential for nutrient cycling, organic matter decomposition, and supporting the marine food web. They contribute to primary production and play a significant role in carbon sequestration.
How do natural stressors affect marine microbial communities?
Natural stressors, such as temperature fluctuations and changes in salinity, can alter the composition and metabolic activities of microbial communities, potentially impacting ecosystem functions.
What are the impacts of anthropogenic stressors on these microbes?
Human-induced stressors, including pollution, overfishing, and habitat destruction, can disrupt microbial diversity and function, leading to reduced ecosystem resilience and health.
Why is it important to study the response of marine microbes to stressors?
Understanding how marine microbes respond to various stressors is vital for predicting ecosystem changes, managing marine resources effectively, and mitigating the impacts of environmental stressors.
