Colonization of Black Smokers by Hyperthermophilic Microorganisms. Issue 2 (February 2017)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Wirth, Reinhard
• Is Part Of: Trends in microbiology. Volume 25:Issue 2(2017)
• Page Start: 92
• Page End: 99
• Publication Date: 2017-02
• Subjects: black smoker -- hyperthermophilic microorganisms -- colonization -- motility -- adhesion -- hydrothermal vent community; Microbiology -- Periodicals; Infection -- Periodicals; Virulence (Microbiology) -- Periodicals; Infection -- Periodicals; Microbiology -- Periodicals; Virulence -- Periodicals; Microbiologie -- Périodiques; Infection -- Périodiques; Virulence (Microbiologie) -- Périodiques; Infection; Microbiology; Virulence (Microbiology); 579
• DOI: 10.1016/j.tim.2016.11.002
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 0966-842X

Abstract

Abstract : Newly erupted black smokers (hydrothermal vent chimneys) are sterile during their formation, but they house hyperthermophiles in substantial amounts in later stages. No hard data exist on the mechanisms by which hyperthermophiles colonize newly erupted black smokers. Here I propose a scenario – based on various experimental data – for how hyperthermophiles colonize black smokers. Hyperthermophiles which are present in cold sea water in minute amounts are transferred by chance to the outside of black smokers and react within seconds to the high temperature by very fast movements. After reaching an optimal temperature region they scan the surface via a zigzag seek-movement and adhere via their flagella at a suitable place, building up biofilms. Trends: Newly erupting black smokers, by their mechanism of formation, initially are sterile. Hyperthermophiles are present in substantial amounts in 'matured' black smokers. Most hyperthermophiles isolated from black smokers are highly mobile, exhibiting two different swimming styles, and are able to adhere to many abiotic and biotic surfaces. Hyperthermophiles can survive for prolonged times at low temperatures and react within seconds to high temperatures. Colonization of black smokers by hyperthermophiles should occur from the surrounding cold deep-sea water.