The archaeal class <i>Nitrososphaeria</i> is a key component of the reproductive microbiome in sponges during gametogenesis

Our research explores the fascinating relationship between sponges and their resident microbes, focusing specifically on how these microbes might influence sponge reproduction. Sponges are marine animals known for their complex and beneficial partnerships with various microbes. While previous studies have mainly looked at how these microbes are passed from parent sponges to their offspring, our study is among the first to examine how microbial communities change during the different stages of sponge reproduction. By analyzing the microbial composition in five sponge species, we discovered that significant changes occur in species with premature oocytes, suggesting that microbes may play a crucial role in providing the necessary nutrients during early egg development. This work not only enhances our understanding of sponge biology but also opens up new avenues for studying how microbes support the reproductive success of their hosts in marine environments.