The indigenous microbiota of microalgae in alpine snowfields supports performance of the meta-community

Microorganisms naturally often occur in complex communities that can increase the persistence of the involved species under unfavourable conditions. We analyzed microbial communities exposed to harsh environmental influences in the Austrian Alps in order to reveal the complexity and extend of prevailing interactions. Samples were obtained from snowfields and freshwater ponds at two geographically separated locations and subjected to an integrative approach. Due to the relevance for biotechnological applications, special emphasis was put on bacteria-algae associations.