Interaction between phytoplankton and heterotrophic bacteria in Arctic fjords during the glacial melting season as revealed by eDNA metabarcoding

• DOI: 10.1093/femsec/fiae059
• Publication Date: 2024-04-16T00:40:12Z
• Authors: Dukki Han; Ki-Tae Park; Haryun Kim; Tae-Hoon Kim; Man-Ki Jeong; Seung-Il Nam
• Keywords: Fjord

Abstract The hydrographic variability in the fjords of Svalbard significantly influences water mass properties, causing distinct patterns microbial diversity and community composition between surface subsurface layers. However, surveys on phytoplankton-associated bacterial communities, pivotal to ecosystem functioning Arctic fjords, are limited. This study investigated interactions phytoplankton heterotrophic communities fjord waters through comprehensive eDNA metabarcoding with 16S 18S rRNA genes. sequencing results revealed a homogenous including few dominant bacteria across waters, whereas suggested spatially diverse eukaryotic plankton distribution. relative abundances showed depth-wise By contrast, populations exhibited variable distributions waters. In network model, linkage (Prasinophytae Dinophyceae) bacteria, particularly Actinobacteria, direct or indirect influence contributions fate phytoplankton-derived organic matter. Our prediction metabolic pathways for activity related matter competitive advantages symbiotic relationships bacteria. findings provide valuable insights into response phytoplankton-bacterial environmental changes fjords.