Exploring microbial dynamics in ferruginous caves: taxonomic and functional diversity across seasons and cave zones.

ABSTRACT: Bacterial communities in ferruginous caves are known for their high diversity and functional adaptability to environmental conditions. In this study, we characterized the taxonomic and potential functional profiles of two iron-rich caves, GEM-1423 and GEM-1462, across photic, dysphotic, and aphotic zones during both rainy and dry seasons. High-throughput sequencing revealed distinct microbial community structures. GEM-1423 showed strong dominance of specific taxa, while GEM-1462 exhibited lower dominance of iron-metabolizing groups and higher beta diversity, particularly in the dry season-indicating a greater degree of species replacement. Notably, iron availability emerged as a key factor influencing microbial dynamics in both caves, affecting community composition and functional pathways

SUBMITTER: Bitencourt JAP 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC12450956 | biostudies-literature | 2025

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature