From Monoculture to Global Ocean: Synergistic Microbial Interactions Drive Production of Recalcitrant Dissolved Organic Carbon
ID:1160
Oral Presentation
2027-01-15 09:15 (China Standard Time)
Session: Session 78 - Bidirectional Effects of Algae on Carbon Sequestration and Methane Production Under Global Change
Abstract
Carboxyl-rich alicyclic molecules (CRAM) constitute a major fraction of marine refractory dissolved organic matter (RDOM). The role of specific microbial interactions in generating this recalcitrant pool remains underexplored. Here, we conducted a 90-day rigorously controlled laboratory experiments for characterizing dissolved organic carbon produced by coccolithophore Gephyrocapsa huxleyi, bacterium Ruegeria pomeroyi, and their co-culture. Compared to either monocultures, the co-culture produced substantially more diverse and complex CRAM, including 479 unique formulas enriched in higher molecular weight and lower heteroatom content. These co-culture derived molecules are widely distributed throughout the water column and contributed to 30.9% CRAM detected in marine environments. Our results provide molecular-level evidence that even a simplified bacteria-phytoplankton system can substantially amplify the production and persistence of RDOM. Despite the far greater complexity of natural microbial networks, this minimal interaction framework reveals a fundamental mechanistic link between microbial partnerships and long term ocean carbon storage.
Speaker
Author
Important Dates
-
Jan 30
2026
Session / Event proposals open
-
Mar 31
2026
Session / Event proposals close
(Extended to April 7) -
Apr 30
2026
Session acceptance notifications
-
Apr 30
2026
Abstract submissions & registration open
-
Jun 30
2026
Abstract submissions close
(Extended to July 21) -
Aug 31
2026
Abstract acceptance notifications
-
Sep 15
2026
Scientific program released
-
Oct 15
2026
Early bird registration closes
-
Jan 12–15
2027
XMAS 2027
