Multidimensional variability of the microbiome of an invasive ascidian species.

ABSTRACT: Animals, including invasive species, are complex entities consisting of a host and its associated symbionts (holobiont). The interaction between the holobiont components is crucial for the host's survival. However, our understanding of how microbiomes of invasive species change across different tissues, localities, and ontogenetic stages, is limited. In the introduced ascidian Styela plicata, we found that its microbiome is highly distinct and specialized among compartments (tunic, gill, and gut). Smaller but significant differences were also found across harbors, suggesting local adaptation, and between juveniles and adults. Furthermore, we found a correlation between the microbiome and environmental trace element concentrations, especially in adults. Functional analyses showed tha

SUBMITTER: Galia-Camps C 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC10514470 | biostudies-literature | 2023 Oct

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature