Peatland pond microbiome. Peatland pond microbiome and biogeochemical responses to solar radiation extremes in a high-altitude wetland, Salar de Huasco, Chile

High-Altitude wetland holds unique peatland ponds characterized by variable biological, physical and chemical conditions. Herein, we evaluate the photoautotrophic and nitrification changes during the day and compare it with bacteria and archaea composition in sediment and water of a peatland pond. Results indicate the presence of photoinhibition of functional groups, including ammonia oxidizers, but a high recovery of photosynthetic activities in the mat. Microbial community was composed of 58 phyla, mainly from Alpha-, Delta- and Gamma-proteobacteria and Bacteroidetes in the water and sediments. The microbial community composition changed between the morning and afternoon associated with nutrients and greenhouse gases, supporting the relevance of pond responses to environmental gradients.