Cinder Pool hot spring metagenome

There is growing recognition that diffuse degassing through the flanks of subduction zones and volcanoes plays a key role in defining the extent and nature of microbial life in marine and continental subsurface environments. However, the link between the flux of volatiles from subsurface to near surface reservoirs and the distribution and diversity of microbial life in these environments remains poorly understood. Here we propose metagenomics sequencing of planktonic microbial communities sampled from three depths in Cinder Pool hot spring, Yellowstone National Park spanning a thermal gradient of 88 to 97 degrees C. This data will be combined with existing 16S rRNA gene amplicon sequencing and quantitation, geochemical and isotopic analyses, and physiological assays to evaluate the plausibility of a deep hydrothermal biosphere and provide the first insights into the metabolic adaptations that facilitate life as its known upper temperature limit is approached. Moreover, we will identify the role of volatiles in supporting this life thereby providing insight into the link between the supply of volatiles from subsurface reservoirs and the biomass, activity, and diversity of subsurface microbial communities. PI Eric S. Boyd, Montana State University