Unveiling macroalgal microbiomes in the Brazilian Fluminense coast
Abstract
Macroalgae, popularly known as seaweed, are multicellular and photosynthetic organisms with wide distribution in marine ecosystems.In addition to their roles as primary producers and shelter environments for the local biota, macroalgae are inhabited by rich and diverse microbial communities, which are responsible for a multiplicity of beneficial functions, including defensive, nutritional and developmental roles for seaweed health in their natural habitats. Additionally, these microbial symbionts are prolific sources of metabolites for further exploration in biotechnology and a variety of industrial sectors. However, little effort has been put into exploring macroalgae-associated microorganisms, especially upon comparison with other marine host-microbe interactions. Under the accelerated scenario of climate change, macroalgae diversity is endangered and their potential extinction may lead to the proliferationof invasive and fouling species which, ultimately, can hamper maritime exploration and naval activities in coastal and seashore areas. In Brazil, the Rio de Janeiro state occupies an important position in maritime and marine-related industries, particularly with the apogee of oil and petroleum extraction from large and deep-water reserves in recent years. Several macroalgae species occur naturally across the Rio de Janeiro coastline and their antimicrobial and antifouling substances have been particularly investigated in the last decades in this Brazilian state, but none has been pursued on characterizing their microbial inhabitants. In this context, the current project aims to unveil the microbiomes associated with macroalgae species on the coastline of the Rio de Janeiro state. Culture-dependent and culture-independent approaches will be applied in the hope to describe the identity and functions of the symbiotic microorganisms living on and within these macroalgae specimens. Bacteria will be directly isolated from macroalgae and then characterized by bioassays and genomic surveys regarding their capabilities to help the survival and development of the algal host. Further bioinformatic and computational analyses will aid in revealing the influence of these microbiomes on macroalgal health and ecosystem functioning. This all-encompassing and innovative proposal will likely result in crucial knowledge to be later incorporated into designing strategies for mitigation of uncontrolled anthropogenic action and optimizing maritime activities and naval expeditionsin the seashore of the Rio de Janeiro state. Furthermore, this project development will put macroalgae microbiology in the spotlight at national and international levels with crucial consequences for the later sustainable development of the Blue Amazon on both ecological and biotechnological fronts.
Document Details
- Document Type
- DoD Grant Award
- Publication Date
- Mar 03, 2023
- Source ID
- N629092312021
Entities
People
- Bruno De Oliveira
Organizations
- Fluminense Federal University
- Office of Naval Research
- United States Navy