Plant phylogeny drives viral diversity and ecological functions in mangrove rhizospheres
ID:1468
Poster Presentation
2027-01-15 16:15 (China Standard Time)
Session:Session 26 - Blue Ecosystems in Transition: From Microbes to Seascapes and Global Impact
Abstract
Mangrove wetlands served as critical blue carbon ecosystems widely distributed across tropical and subtropical coastal zones, where their well-developed root systems provide unique habitats acting as hotspots for microbial activity. While viruses are gradually recognized as essential regulators of soil microbial dynamics and biogeochemical cycling, their diversity and ecological roles within the rhizosphere remain poorly understood. Here, we conducted a systematic analysis of viral communities associated with seven mangrove species through quarterly sampling over one year. In total, we identified 791 viral operational taxonomic units (vOTUs), of which only 25 could be classified at the family level, revealing a vast reservoir of previously uncharacterized viral taxa in mangrove rhizospheres. Functional annotation uncovered 298 auxiliary metabolic genes (AMGs) involved in biogeochemical cycling, spanning carbon metabolism, sulfur metabolism, phosphorus acquisition, and vitamin biosynthesis. Furthermore, the widespread co-occurrence of host defense systems alongside corresponding viral counter-defense systems suggests an ongoing coevolutionary arms race between hosts and viruses. Notably, rhizosphere viral communities exhibited temporal stability across seasons but showed significant divergence among mangrove species, providing the first evidence of phylosymbiosis between plants and their rhizosphere viral communities. These findings highlight the intimate connection between plant phylogeny and rhizosphere viral ecology, deepening our understanding of plant-microbe-virus interactions and their contributions to coastal wetland ecosystem functioning.
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Important Dates
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Jan 30
2026
Session / Event proposals open
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Mar 31
2026
Session / Event proposals close
(Extended to April 7) -
Apr 30
2026
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Apr 30
2026
Abstract submissions & registration open
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Jun 30
2026
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(Extended to July 21) -
Aug 31
2026
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Sep 15
2026
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Oct 15
2026
Early bird registration closes
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Jan 12–15
2027
XMAS 2027
