microbial ecology – Page 2

Microplastic impacts archaeal abundance, microbial communities, and their network connectivity in a Sub-Saharan soil environment

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This study examined how plastic waste that has broken down into tiny microplastics affects soil microorganisms in Kenya. Researchers found that microplastics reduce the number and diversity of helpful archaea (ancient microorganisms important for nitrogen cycling) and disrupt how different microbes interact with each other in soil. While microplastics carried slightly more potentially harmful bacteria, they were much better at spreading dangerous fungi, suggesting plastic waste poses a significant threat to soil health in Sub-Saharan Africa.

Arbuscular mycorrhiza suppresses microbial abundance, and particularly that of ammonia oxidizing bacteria, in agricultural soils

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This study examined how beneficial fungal partners of plants (arbuscular mycorrhizal fungi) affect soil bacteria that convert ammonia to nitrate. Using 50 different soils from Czech agricultural fields, researchers found that these fungi suppress ammonia-oxidizing bacteria, but surprisingly this happens even when ammonia levels in soil are high. The findings suggest the relationship between these microorganisms is more complex than simple competition for nutrients.

Diversity and Ecology of Fungi from Underexplored and Extreme Environments

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This editorial introduces a special issue on fungi that survive in harsh environments like deserts, salty water, polar regions, and polluted sites. Scientists are discovering that these remarkable fungi can help clean up contaminated soil, support plant growth under stress, and may have pharmaceutical uses. The research brings together classical mycology with modern genetic techniques to unlock the untapped potential of these extreme-environment fungi.

Insights into Persian Gulf Beach Sand Mycobiomes: Promises and Challenges in Fungal Diversity

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Researchers studied fungi living in sand and water along Persian Gulf beaches to understand potential health risks for swimmers. They found that fungal species, particularly Aspergillus terreus, were abundant in beach sand, with some fungi showing resistance to common antifungal medicines. The study suggests beaches need better monitoring and sanitation practices to protect public health, especially during busy bathing seasons when many visitors enjoy the coast.

Organic and Inorganic Amendments Shape Bacterial Indicator Communities That Can, In Turn, Promote Rice Yield

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Farmers wanting to grow more rice while protecting the environment can benefit from combining chemical fertilizers with mushroom waste. This combination encourages specific beneficial bacteria in the soil that help break down organic matter and make nutrients available to rice plants. The study found that soil health measured through microbial activity is a better predictor of rice harvest than traditional soil chemistry tests, suggesting that managing soil microbes should be a priority for sustainable farming.

Microbial communities associated with the black morel Morchella sextelata cultivated in greenhouses

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This study examined the tiny organisms living on and around cultivated black morel mushrooms grown in greenhouses in China. Researchers found that four main types of bacteria consistently live on morel fruiting bodies: Pedobacter, Pseudomonas, Stenotrophomonas, and Flavobacterium. The bacteria and fungi in the soil surrounding morels appear to be important for the mushrooms’ growth and development, with different microbial communities found on different parts of the mushroom.

Antifungal and other bioactive properties of the volatilome of Streptomyces scabiei

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This research discovered that the bacterium Streptomyces scabiei, which causes common scab disease on potatoes and other root crops, produces a variety of natural chemical compounds that can kill harmful fungi and promote plant growth. Scientists identified 36 different volatile chemicals released by this bacterium, including some previously unknown for their antifungal abilities. These findings suggest that despite being a plant pathogen, this bacterium may actually help protect crops from more dangerous diseases, offering potential for developing natural alternatives to synthetic pesticides.

Morphological, Genetic, and Microbiological Characterization of Tuber magnatum Picco Populations from “Alto Molise”, Central-Southern Italy

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Italian white truffles from the Molise region were studied to identify unique characteristics that could help verify their authenticity and origin. Researchers examined the physical features, genetic makeup, and microbial communities of truffles from four different municipalities. They discovered that truffles from certain areas share a unique genetic marker not found elsewhere in Italy, and that different populations have distinct microbial communities. These findings could help prevent truffle fraud and protect the reputation of Molise truffles in the global market.

Diversity and Ecology of Fungi from Underexplored and Extreme Environments

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This research paper highlights the remarkable diversity of fungi that thrive in some of Earth’s most challenging environments, from polluted soils and hypersaline lagoons to Arctic and Antarctic lakes. These fungi possess unique adaptations that allow them to survive extreme conditions and play important roles in plant health, pollution cleanup, and ecosystem resilience. The paper reviews multiple studies discovering new fungal species and understanding how fungi interact with their environments, offering potential applications for environmental remediation and sustainable agriculture.

Yeast Diversity on Sandy Lake Beaches Used for Recreation in Olsztyn, Poland

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Researchers studied yeasts living in sand from four recreational lakes in Poland over two summers. They found 62 different yeast species, including 8 potentially harmful types that can cause infections in humans. The study shows beach sand contains significant microbial contamination that should be regularly monitored to protect swimmers, especially people with weakened immune systems or skin injuries.

Research Keyword: microbial ecology