Why sequence metagenomics in freshwater lakes?

Aquatic microbial communities represent one of the largest reservoirs of genetic and biochemical
diversity on the planet, and metagenomic studies have led to the discovery of novel gene families and a deeper understanding of how microbial communities mediate the flow of carbon and energy. However, most of these studies have been based on a static ‘snap shot’ of genetic diversity found under a particular set of environmental conditions.  This study involves a metagenomic time-series to better understand how microbial communities control carbon cycling in freshwater systems.

Principal Investigators: Katherine McMahon, University of Wisconsin

Program: CSP 2011