Bacteria's seasonal evolution in Wisconsin's Lake Mendota
In Lake Mendota, located in Wisconsin, bacteria experience an extraordinary cycle of evolution. These bacteria alter their evolutionary processes in response to the weather.
Bacteria in Lake Mendota, Wisconsin continuously evolve, adapting to the changing seasons, according to a report by IFLScience. Research conducted by scientists from the University of Texas at Austin reveals that these bacteria evolve throughout the year to adjust to seasonal environmental changes.
During winter, the lake is covered with ice, while in summer, it's populated by algae. These changes profoundly affect the bacteria, which must adapt to the frigid water temperatures in winter and the challenging conditions of summer. The scientists carried out their experiment over a span of nearly 20 years, during which they analysed 471 samples of microorganisms. This project demonstrates that genetic variability is both common and frequent. Moreover, cyclical seasonal patterns were observed in 80% of the samples.
Bacteria revert to their form from thousands of generations ago
Numerous species of bacteria appear to evolve backwards, returning to a genetic state seen thousands of generations ago. Microbes have a lifespan of only a few days, making it possible to analyse thousands of generations of evolution within a single year.
"I was surprised that such a large portion of the bacterial community was undergoing this type of change," said Robin Rohwer, a researcher from the University of Texas at Austin.
In 2012, the lake experienced unusual weather conditions. An exceptionally hot and dry summer caused the ice to melt earlier than usual and reduced water inflow, leading to a decline in algae numbers. These changes significantly impacted the life processes of bacteria, particularly with respect to nitrogen metabolism. These phenomena proved crucial for gaining a better understanding of the evolutionary processes of microorganisms within this ecosystem.
Research published in "Nature Microbiology" highlights that ecology and evolution are closely interconnected. Understanding this process can offer benefits in the study of microorganisms and their roles within ecosystems.
