KAUST Research Uncovers Unique Microbiomes In Glacier-Fed Streams Amid Climate Change Concerns

King Abdullah University of Science and Technology (KAUST) has partnered with the Swiss Federal Institute of Technology Lausanne (EPFL) to conduct a comprehensive study on microbiomes in glacier-fed streams. These streams, originating from glaciers on the world's highest mountains, are home to a diverse range of microorganisms. Over five years, researchers collected samples from 170 streams across various regions, including New Zealand, the Himalayas, and the Andes.

The research findings have been published in Nature, marking the first global reference for microbiomes in these unique ecosystems. Glacier-fed streams are among the most extreme freshwater environments, located at mountain peaks with near-freezing temperatures and low nutrient levels. They also serve as crucial water sources for many major rivers worldwide.

Dr. Ramona Marasco from KAUST highlighted that glacier-fed streams are particularly susceptible to climate change impacts. Establishing a baseline for their microbiomes is essential to understanding ecological changes over time. KAUST's genetic sequencing efforts played a significant role in creating a detailed picture of these vulnerable ecosystems.

The study successfully developed the first global atlas of microorganisms found in glacier-fed streams. It revealed that these streams host a distinct microbiome compared to other cryospheric systems like glaciers and ice-covered lakes. Notably, around half of the bacterial species are unique to specific mountain ranges.

This uniqueness is attributed to the geographical isolation of mountain ranges, which acts similarly to islands, and the intense natural selection pressures present in glacier-fed streams. The harsh conditions contribute to the development of specialized microbial communities adapted to survive in such environments.

The research team gathered samples from diverse locations including Greenland, Alaska, and the Rwenzori Mountains in Uganda. This extensive collection effort provided valuable insights into how these ecosystems function as vital "water reservoirs" for our planet.

Global Reference for Future Studies

The study's findings offer a crucial reference point for future research on glacier-fed stream microbiomes. Understanding these ecosystems is vital as they play an essential role in supporting biodiversity and maintaining water resources globally.

By establishing this baseline data, scientists can better monitor changes over time and assess the impact of environmental factors such as climate change on these unique microbial communities.

The collaboration between KAUST and EPFL underscores the importance of international partnerships in advancing scientific knowledge about our planet's most extreme environments.

With inputs from SPA