Comparative metagenomics indicates metabolic niche differentiation of benthic and planktonic Woeseiaceae

LR sequencing is currently the most valuable tool for analyzing highly diverse benthic microbiomes. The small overlap of MAGs from water column and sediments indicated a limited bentho-pelagic coupling. The data suggest that Woeseiaceae have habitat-specific metabolic specialization: while benthic Woeseiaceae possess the metabolic capabilities to utilize fresh organic compounds like laminarin derived from algae blooms, and to perform dissimilatory nitrate, nitrite and iron reduction for gain energy, particle attached Woeseiaceae from the water column may be specialized in degrading protein-rich and sulfated organic matter likely reflecting adaptation to the different types of organic matter and redox conditions in sediments vs. the water column.