Chlamydia-Like Bacteria Discovered in Great Barrier Reef

by François Dupont
4 comments
Great Barrier Reef coral microbiome

Chlamydia-Like Bacteria Uncovered in Great Barrier Reef

A recent scientific study has revealed the presence of a Chlamydia-like bacteria in the coral tissues of the Great Barrier Reef, shedding new light on the coral microbiome and its potential impact on reef health. This groundbreaking discovery marks the first documented occurrence of Chlamydiales in corals, emphasizing the potential exchange of nutrients and energy between coral-associated bacteria and their hosts.

A collaborative effort involving the University of Melbourne, the Australian Institute of Marine Science (Townsville), and the University of Vienna led to the identification of two distinct bacterial groups within the coral tissue. One of these groups closely resembles the bacteria responsible for Chlamydia infections (Chlamydiales), while the other group is identified as Endozoicomonas.

Published in the journal Science Advances, this study, funded by an ARC Laureate Fellowship, adds a new layer of complexity to our understanding of coral reef health. Dr. Justin Maire, the lead researcher from the University of Melbourne’s Faculty of Science, expressed the significance of the findings: “The presence of Chlamydiales, a bacterial order containing pathogens that cause chlamydia infections in mammals, has never before been observed in corals.”

Collaborating with Chlamydiales specialists Dr. Astrid Collingro and Professor Matthias Horn from the University of Vienna, the researchers found that these bacteria extract nutrients and energy from their coral hosts to ensure their survival. Dr. Maire added, “Although the novel Chlamydiales share many similarities with mammalian pathogens, it remains uncertain whether they are detrimental or beneficial to corals. There is a possibility that this bacterium acquires nutrients and energy from other coral-associated bacteria. For those studying coral biology, the potential interactions among bacteria residing within coral tissues are immensely exciting.”

Professor Madeleine van Oppen, senior author of the study from the University of Melbourne, commented on the other bacterium discovery, Endozoicomonas, which is commonly found in corals and generally considered beneficial due to its ability to produce B vitamins and antimicrobial compounds.

“My laboratory focuses on the development of bacterial probiotics for corals, aimed at enhancing their resistance to thermal stress and increasing survival rates in response to climate warming,” said Professor van Oppen. “Our understanding of the functions performed by coral-associated bacteria remains limited, and this new study will help us determine whether probiotics are a viable solution and whether bacteria such as Endozoicomonas are best suited for this purpose.”

Reference: “Colocalization and potential interactions of Endozoicomonas and chlamydiae in microbial aggregates of the coral Pocillopora acuta” by Justin Maire, Kshitij Tandon, Astrid Collingro, Allison van de Meene, Katarina Damjanovic, Cecilie Ravn Gotze, Sophie Stephenson, Gayle K. Philip, Matthias Horn, Neal E. Cantin, Linda L. Blackall and Madeleine J. H. van Oppen, 17 May 2023, Science Advances.
DOI: 10.1126/sciadv.adg0773

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about Great Barrier Reef coral microbiome

What did researchers discover in the Great Barrier Reef?

Researchers discovered a Chlamydia-like bacteria and Endozoicomonas in the coral tissues of the Great Barrier Reef. This is the first time Chlamydiales has been found in corals, providing insights into the coral microbiome and potential implications for reef health.

What is the significance of finding Chlamydiales in corals?

The presence of Chlamydiales in corals is significant because it has never been observed before. It suggests a possible nutrient and energy exchange between coral-associated bacteria and their hosts, but it is still uncertain whether the bacteria are beneficial or detrimental to corals.

What are the implications of the study for coral reef health?

This study adds a new layer of complexity to our understanding of coral reef health. By identifying different bacterial groups within coral tissue, including Chlamydia-like bacteria and Endozoicomonas, researchers can investigate the potential interactions and functions of coral-associated bacteria, which may impact the health and resilience of coral reefs.

What is the role of Endozoicomonas in corals?

Endozoicomonas, the other bacterium discovered in the study, is commonly found in corals and is generally considered beneficial. It has the ability to produce B vitamins and antimicrobial compounds, which could contribute to the overall health and survival of corals. Further research is needed to fully understand the functions and potential benefits of Endozoicomonas in coral ecosystems.

How does this study contribute to coral research?

This study provides crucial insights into the microbiome of corals, particularly in the context of the Great Barrier Reef. By identifying Chlamydia-like bacteria and exploring their potential interactions with other bacteria, researchers gain a deeper understanding of coral biology, which can inform future studies on coral health, conservation, and the development of probiotics to enhance coral resilience.

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4 comments

ScienceGeek55 July 13, 2023 - 4:41 am

Finally, some groundbreaking research on the coral microbiome! The discovery of Chlamydia-like bacteria and the possible nutrient exchange is mind-blowing. Gotta give props to the researchers for shedding light on these fascinating interactions. Can’t wait to see what’s next!

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OceanExplorer77 July 13, 2023 - 12:59 pm

Whoa, Chlamydiales in corals? That’s wild! This research could totally change how we think about coral reefs. Can’t wait to learn more about these coral-associated bacteria and their mysterious interactions. Exciting stuff!

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NatureNerd101 July 13, 2023 - 4:35 pm

Endozoicomonas is like a superhero for corals, producing vitamins n’ antimicrobial stuff. Maybe they can help save coral reefs from climate change. This study is a big step towards understanding coral-associated bacteria. Let’s protect our reefs!

Reply
CoralLover92 July 13, 2023 - 5:58 pm

wow, dey found a Chlamydia-like bacteria in d coral tissue of d great barrier reef. dat’s krazy! Dis study can really help us undastand more bout corals n how dey work. hope dey figure out if d bacteria is good or bad 4 dem corals!

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