Ocean plankton reveal sugar-for-nutrients partnership that sustains life in barren seas
In the vast, nutrient-poor regions of the world's oceans, there is a constant struggle for survival. Yet tiny organisms known as Collodaria have thrived there for millions of years. These Collodaria host microscopically small algae that are essential for survival.
In the nutrient-poor expanses of the world's oceans, a symbiotic partnership thrives among tiny organisms known as Collodaria. These single-celled organisms host microscopic algae within their colonies, forming a mutually beneficial relationship known as a holobiont. A team from the University of Jena has uncovered the metabolic mechanism behind this symbiosis, revealing the key role that algae play in supporting Collodaria's survival.
Using stable-isotope tracing, the researchers discovered that algae supply energy-rich sugars through photosynthesis, while Collodaria provide protection and essential nutrients obtained directly from seawater. This efficient division of labor enables the partnership to persist even in the most barren parts of the ocean, contributing significantly to global biogeochemical cycles and marine food webs.
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