A molecular dawn for biogeochemistry

Trends in Ecology and Evolution
By: , and 

Links

Abstract

Biogeochemistry is at the dawn of an era in which molecular advances enable the discovery of novel microorganisms having unforeseen metabolic capabilities, revealing new insight into the underlying processes regulating elemental cycles at local to global scales. Traditionally, biogeochemical inquiry began by studying a process of interest, and then focusing downward to uncover the microorganisms and metabolic pathways mediating that process. With the ability to sequence functional genes from the environment, molecular approaches now enable the flow of inquiry in the opposite direction. Here, we argue that a focus on functional genes, the microorganisms in which they reside, and the interaction of those organisms with the broader microbial community could transform our understanding of many globally important biogeochemical processes. ?? 2006 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.
Publication type Article
Publication Subtype Journal Article
Title A molecular dawn for biogeochemistry
Series title Trends in Ecology and Evolution
DOI 10.1016/j.tree.2006.04.003
Volume 21
Issue 6
Year Published 2006
Language English
Larger Work Type Article
Larger Work Subtype Journal Article
Larger Work Title Trends in Ecology and Evolution
First page 288
Last page 295
Google Analytic Metrics Metrics page
Additional publication details