Microbial DNA sequencing in the Kanogawa riverine systems

Microbial ecological study is conducted to elucidate the impact of flood and flood control using spillway on the ecosystem in the river and its estuary. Selected study site is the Kanogawa riverine system in Izu Penninsula and its estuary, Suruga Bay. Study is in particular focused on discharge of groundwater into the river, and groundwater and surface water interaction. The authors have found some specific microbes inhabited in the deep subsurface environment by DNA sequencing from groundwater. Thus, DNA sequencing could be an indicator for groundwater discharge into the surface water. Microbial DNA also suggest some biogeochemical reaction ongoing the given ecosystem in river and estuary. Samples are obtained from Kanogawa riverine system and estuary of Suruga Bay for both water and sediment.