In a groundbreaking discovery, scientists have identified two new bacterial species thriving within soft corals in the dark depths of the Gulf of Mexico. These corals, Callogorgia delta and Callogorgia americana, flourish at depths of 300 to 900 meters, where sunlight fails to penetrate.
The research, led by Professor Iliana Baums from the Helmholtz Institute for Functional Marine Biodiversity at the University of Oldenburg, and Dr. Samuel Vohsen from Lehigh University, reveals a new family of bacteria named Oceanoplasmataceae. Published in the journal Nature Communications, this study expands our understanding of marine biodiversity.
The newly discovered bacteria are notable for their remarkably small genomes, with Oceanoplasma callogorgiae containing only 359 genes and Thalassoplasma callogorgiae having 385. This contrasts sharply with the approximately 4,000 genes found in Escherichia coli and around 21,000 in humans. The bacteria's unique metabolic process relies on the amino acid arginine, a departure from the typical carbohydrate metabolism seen in most organisms.
Professor Baums expressed astonishment at how these organisms function with such reduced genetic material, stating, "These species are impressive examples of how few genes are needed for a functional organism." The researchers are investigating whether these bacteria act solely as parasites or if they engage in a symbiotic relationship with the corals.
Genetic analysis indicates that the bacteria employ CRISPR/Cas systems to defend against foreign DNA, which may suggest a role in helping corals fend off pathogens. Alternatively, it is possible that the corals benefit from nitrogen supplied by the bacteria during arginine breakdown.
This discovery not only enhances our understanding of deep-sea ecosystems but also raises questions about the potential applications of these findings. Insights into the symbiotic relationships between these bacteria and corals could inform conservation strategies and enhance our understanding of biodiversity in extreme environments.
As researchers continue to explore these unique microbial partnerships, they aim to uncover how deep-sea corals withstand environmental pressures and adapt to changing ocean conditions. Such knowledge could be pivotal in addressing the challenges posed by climate change on marine ecosystems.