The impacts of elevated salinity on the microbial interactions that take place in aquatic ecosystems have been a topic of study for some time. However, a new study from researchers at the University of California, Santa Cruz has revealed that elevated salinity can significantly affect the structure and function of microbial communities.

The team found that when salinity levels increase, they can lead to changes in the composition of the microbial community. This includes a decrease in the diversity of species and an increase in the abundance of certain taxa, such as halophilic bacteria. In addition, the team found that increased salinity can also reduce the rate of nutrient cycling and decomposition, which are essential processes that maintain the health of aquatic ecosystems.

Read Full Article Here

source: Phys.org