Accurate monitoring of substrate-dependent growth reveals ecotypic differentiation among marine yeasts.

ABSTRACT: Phytoplankton-derived dissolved organic matter (DOM) sustains complex marine microbial communities, yet the role of marine fungi-particularly yeasts-remains understudied regarding their substrate preferences, enzymatic strategies, and ecological relevance. We developed a novel protocol to investigate substrate-specific growth of marine fungal isolates under defined conditions and high temporal resolution. Using the β-1,3-glucan laminarin-a major marine storage polysaccharide of phytoplankton-and its oligomeric and monomeric breakdown products, we characterized growth and substrate utilization profiles of eleven marine yeast isolates from the epipelagic zone at Helgoland Roads, North Sea. Statistical analyses of growth kinetics distinguished four ecotypes with distinct substrate utilization

SUBMITTER: Arslan-Gatz BS 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC12903948 | biostudies-literature | 2026 Jan

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature