An integrative approach to understanding microbial diversity: from intracellular mechanisms to community structure

作者：Gudelj Ivana; Weitz Joshua S; Ferenci Tom; Horner Devine M Claire; Marx Christopher J; Meyer Justin R; Forde Samantha E^*

来源：Ecology Letters, 2010, 13(9): 1073-1084.

DOI：10.1111/j.1461-0248.2010.01507.x

• Ecological genomics
• experimental evolution
• mathematical models
• micro-organisms
• metabolism
• parasitism
• trade-offs
• viruses

Trade-offs have been put forward as essential to the generation and maintenance of diversity. However, variation in trade-offs is often determined at the molecular level, outside the scope of conventional ecological inquiry. In this study, we propose that understanding the intracellular basis for trade-offs in microbial systems can aid in predicting and interpreting patterns of diversity. First, we show how laboratory experiments and mathematical models have unveiled the hidden intracellular mechanisms underlying trade-offs key to microbial diversity: (i) metabolic and regulatory trade-offs in bacteria and yeast; (ii) life-history trade-offs in bacterial viruses. Next, we examine recent studies of marine microbes that have taken steps toward reconciling the molecular and the ecological views of trade-offs, despite the challenges in doing so in natural settings. Finally, we suggest avenues for research where mathematical modelling, experiments and studies of natural microbial communities provide a unique opportunity to integrate studies of diversity across multiple scales.

• 出版日期2010-9