Tag

Ocean Microbiology

All articles tagged with #ocean microbiology

Dragon Hole: Deep-Sea Sinkhole Unveils 1,730 Unknown Viruses
science1 month ago

Dragon Hole: Deep-Sea Sinkhole Unveils 1,730 Unknown Viruses

A near-1,000-foot-deep underwater sinkhole in the South China Sea, called Dragon Hole, hosts oxygen-free layers and distinct microbial ecosystems. Researchers grew 294 bacterial strains (over 22% new) and identified about 1,730 viral types—mostly phages—with many undiscovered viruses in the deeper anoxic zones, suggesting a sealed, extreme-environment microbial world.

Massive Mysterious Viruses Discovered in Ocean Depths
science8 months ago

Massive Mysterious Viruses Discovered in Ocean Depths

Scientists have discovered hundreds of new giant viruses in the ocean, revealing their potential roles in marine ecosystems, including influencing algae and phytoplankton, which are vital for oxygen production and marine food chains. These findings enhance understanding of oceanic microbial interactions and could aid in managing harmful algal blooms and monitoring water health.