New studies show that ocean acidification changes the mix of microbes in coral reef ecosystems, which can be a key indicator of their health. The study results, published in the well-known scientific journal Microbiome, focused on coral reefs, suggest the possibility of wider application of this method to monitor the impact of human activities on various ecosystems.
Understanding how human actions affect changes in ecosystems allows scientists to predict their future and develop protective strategies. Microorganisms, although often overlooked in assessing ecosystem health, play a crucial role, supporting critical functions such as nutrition and modulation of the immune systems of the organisms they coexist with.
A team of scientists from Imperial College London, led by Dr. Emma Ransome, examined whether analyzing changes in the community of microorganisms, combined with changes in the communities of larger organisms (macro-organisms), could represent a new way of measuring stress levels in coral reef ecosystems. As part of the study, scientists examined natural carbon dioxide (CO2) outflows on the ocean floor near Papua New Guinea, which serve as a unique natural laboratory for studying the impact of ocean acidification. Using Autonomous Reef Monitoring Structures (ARMS), they collected samples of organisms and sediments from areas with different CO2 concentrations.
Using genetic sequencing techniques and mass spectrometry, they identified the microorganisms and metabolites present in the samples. They discovered that as the concentration of CO2 in the ocean increased, the microbes and metabolites associated with reef macro-organisms became more similar to those found in the sediment, indicating a decline in ‘holobiont community distinctness’.
These findings suggest that changes in microbial communities can serve as early indicators of ecosystem stress. Jake Williams, the first author of the study, emphasizes that these discoveries open the possibility of developing general and robust metrics based on the relationships between microorganisms and chemicals inside and outside organisms.
Dr. Emma Ransome adds that a holistic approach is essential to accurately assess and predict impacts on coral reefs. Microorganisms are an extremely important, though often overlooked, component of all our ecosystems and are a crucial tool for understanding environmental outcomes.
Scientists highlight how important it is to understand and protect these processes, not only for the health of coral reefs but also for maintaining the balance in marine ecosystems that depend on them. In the face of climate change and other anthropogenic challenges, intensive research of these phenomena is key to developing effective protection and restoration strategies for coral reefs.
About the author
Grzegorz Bubak
My fascination with marine aquariums began over two decades ago when I stumbled upon an article about this topic in a magazine. Since then, the underwater world has become my obsession and passion, shaping my everyday life. I started my adventure with marine aquariums with soft corals, which were my first step into this fascinating world. Over time, captivated by the diversity and beauty of SPS corals, I decided to focus on their cultivation, which continues to fill me with constant wonder.
Thanks to my experience and passion for marine aquariums, I am ready to share my knowledge and expertise with other enthusiasts in this field. I am happy to be part of the Reef Pedia community, which serves as an invaluable source of information for all marine aquarium lovers.