How giant viruses shape ecosystems in Earth's polar regions

Summary

This article explores the discovery and ecological significance of giant viruses, particularly in polar regions. Unlike typical viruses, giant viruses are large enough to be visible under light microscopes and carry complex genomes. The article discusses how these viruses were long overlooked due to traditional filtration methods, and how they play crucial roles in regulating microbial communities, nutrient cycling, and biogeochemical processes in extreme environments like Arctic and Antarctic ecosystems. It highlights how giant viruses are redefining our understanding of viral biology and their orchestration of life in polar regions.

Source

bskyHow giant viruses shape ecosystems in Earth's polar regionstheconversation.com