Anne Thompson : “Salps: Predators of Marine Microbes”

By Trend News Line 2024-03-19 12:08:00.

Role of Salps in Marine Microbial Communities

Salps, pelagic tunicates that play a crucial role in marine ecosystems, have been identified as predators of marine microbes. These gelatinous creatures feed by pumping seawater through mucous mesh nets, capturing particles such as preferred microbes. The carbon in these microbes is then either sent to the deep sea as sinking fecal pellets or consumed by predators of salps, such as seabirds and sea turtles.

Research on Salp Predation

A recent study conducted by Anne Thompson and colleagues delved into the role played by salps in the North Pacific Subtropical Gyre, an area dominated by small-cell microbes like Prochlorococcus. Through SCUBA dives and quantitative analysis, the researchers found that salps primarily feed on Crocosphaera, Synechococcus, diatoms, and Chrysochromulina, rather than Prochlorococcus. This discovery challenges previous assumptions about the mechanisms of cell capture by salps and highlights their significant impact on microbial communities in nutrient-poor open ocean environments.

Implications for Global Ecosystems

The findings of this study have broad implications for global nutrient cycling and ecosystem dynamics. Salps, by selectively consuming certain types of microbes, influence the abundances and functions of microbial communities in the open ocean. This, in turn, can have cascading effects on higher trophic levels and overall ecosystem health. Understanding the role of salps in marine ecosystems is essential for predicting and managing the impacts of environmental changes on ocean biodiversity.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the research on salp predation sheds light on a previously overlooked source of microbial mortality in the marine environment. By elucidating how salps interact with different types of microbes, scientists can better comprehend the complex web of interactions that shape marine ecosystems. This study underscores the importance of considering all factors, including lesser-known predators like salps, in ecological research and conservation efforts..

salps predators marine microbes
salps identified predators marine microbes.