Discovery of High Abundances of Aster-Like Nanoparticles in Pelagic Environments: Characterization and Dynamics.

ABSTRACT: This study reports the discovery of Aster-Like Nanoparticles (ALNs) in pelagic environments. ALNs are pleomorphic, with three dominant morphotypes which do not fit into any previously defined environmental entities [i.e., ultramicro-prokaryotes, controversed nanobes, and non-living particles (biomimetic mineralo-organic particles, natural nanoparticles or viruses)] of similar size. Elemental composition and selected-area electron diffraction patterns suggested that the organic nature of ALNs may prevail over the possibility of crystal structures. Likewise, recorded changes in ALN numbers in the absence of cells are at odds with an affiliation to until now described viral particles. ALN abundances showed marked seasonal dynamics in the lakewater, with maximal values (up to 9.0 ± 0.5 × 10

SUBMITTER: Colombet J 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC6803438 | biostudies-literature | 2019

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature