Diatoms of North AmericaDiversity of microbial jungles carried by loggerhead sea turtles
Description: Sea turtles, like all animals, host complex microbial communities from multiple domains of life, collectively forming their microbiome. Within this microbiome, a subset of taxa, referred to as the core microbiome, consists of mutualistic or commensal species shared across individuals in similar habitats. The external surfaces of sea turtles also support opportunistic epibionts, which colonize their skin and carapace much like any other suitable substrate. Diatoms are now recognized as key components of the surface microbiome in all sea turtle species, with several taxa identified as part of their core microbiota. The loggerhead sea turtle (Caretta caretta), named for its large head, is the most widespread sea turtle species globally and the most common in the Mediterranean Sea. It hosts exceptionally diverse macroepibiont communities, alongside rich and complex microbial assemblages. In this talk, I will provide an overview of our research on the microbial ecosystems thriving on mediterranean loggerhead sea turtles, with a particular focus on diatom communities. I will also discuss their interactions with bacteria, cyanobacterial communities, and mycobiome, shedding light on the intricate relationships within this microbial jungle. However, the primary emphasis will remain on diatoms and their ecological relationships and significance in this unique habitat.
Intended audience: The talk is intended for interested fellow diatomists as well as general public.
