Reconstruction of the Functional Ecosystem in the High Light, Low Temperature Union Glacier Region, Antarctica.

ABSTRACT: Antarctica is covered by multiple larger glaciers with diverse extreme conditions. Microorganisms in Antarctic regions are primarily responsible for diverse biogeochemical processes. The identity and functionality of microorganisms from polar glaciers are defined. However, little is known about microbial communities from the high elevation glaciers. The Union Glacier, located in the inland of West Antarctica at 79°S, is a challenging environment for life to survive due to the high irradiance and low temperatures. Here, soil and rock samples were obtained from three high mountains (Rossman Cove, Charles Peak, and Elephant Head) adjacent to the Union Glacier. Using metagenomic analyses, the functional microbial ecosystem was analyzed through the reconstruction of carbon, nitrogen and sulfur

SUBMITTER: Li Y 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC6813960 | biostudies-literature | 2019

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature