Virus-host dynamics play crucial roles in the cycling of phosphorus in South Atlantic Ocean euphotic zones

As a consequence of their role as obligate parasites of marine microorganisms, viruses are primary mediators of marine biogeochemical cycles. Viruses augment the metabolisms of bacteria and archaea through expression of auxiliary metabolic genes (AMGs). Recent studies have shown that AMGs affect the biogeochemical recycling of sulphur and nitrogen but comparatively, little is known regarding their influence on phosphorus recycling. Here, we provide the first insights regarding the potential effects of phosphorus limitation and AMGs on putative hosts in the euphotic zone of the South Atlantic Ocean (SAO).