The unique chemistry of Eastern Mediterranean water masses selects for distinct microbial communities by depth.

ABSTRACT: The waters of the Eastern Mediterranean are characterized by unique physical and chemical properties within separate water masses occupying different depths. Distinct water masses are present throughout the oceans, which drive thermohaline circulation. These water masses may contain specific microbial assemblages. The goal of this study was to examine the effect of physical and geological phenomena on the microbial community of the Eastern Mediterranean water column. Chemical measurements were combined with phospholipid fatty acid (PLFA) analysis and high-throughput 16S rRNA sequencing to characterize the microbial community in the water column at five sites. We demonstrate that the chemistry and microbial community of the water column were stratified into three distinct water masses. The

SUBMITTER: Techtmann SM 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC4373936 | biostudies-literature | 2015

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature