The Xiamen Symposium on Marine Environmental Sciences

2027 Xiamen Symposium on Marine Environmental Sciences

January 12-15, 2027

Temperature-driven niche partitioning and genomic adaptation in Guaymas Basin hydrothermal sediment microbiomes
ID:746 Oral Presentation

2027-01-13 15:35 (China Standard Time)

Session:Session 14 - Microbial connectivity at the deep-sea floor: sediment–water interactions, particles, and benthic–pelagic coupling

Abstract
Temperature acts as a primary architect of microbial life in the deep biosphere, yet the systematic reorganization of metabolic strategies across extreme thermal gradients remains poorly understood. Using the Guaymas Basin as a natural laboratory, we analyzed 722 non-redundant metagenome-assembled genomes (MAGs) across a 4–87°C gradient to resolve the functional logic of microbial thermal adaptation. Our results reveal a sharp, temperature-driven metabolic bifurcation: cool-sediment communities (4–20°C) exhibit a scavenging-oriented generalist strategy, supported by an expansive repertoire of resource acquisition, environmental sensing, and complex organic catabolism genes. This high-cost regulatory investment is fueled by the high energy yield of aerobic respiratory potential. In contrast, hot-sediment communities (>45°C) undergo a fundamental shift toward maintenance-oriented bioenergetic specialization. This streamlined strategy is marked by the modular enrichment of F420-dependent redox systems and an enhanced investment in genome integrity and protein quality control. Across this gradient, functional continuity in sulfur and hydrogen cycling is maintained despite profound changes in microbial community composition. Collectively, these findings demonstrate that the microbial response to thermal stress is not a gradual replacement of one microbial species by another, but a systematic reallocation of energy budgets among major microbial clades. This study provides a universal framework for understanding how temperature-driven bioenergetic constraints shape the functional architecture and biogeochemical resilience of the deep sedimentary biosphere.
Speaker
Lei Su Tongji University

Author
Lei Su Tongji University

    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