Geobiology—Metabolic Diversity Influences the Environment

Geobiology is the study of how living organisms interact with and affect their environment over time. One key aspect of this field is understanding the ways in which metabolic diversity among different organisms can influence the environment. Metabolic diversity refers to the range of different ways that organisms can convert energy and nutrients into the building blocks they need to survive and reproduce. For example, some organisms are photosynthetic, meaning they use light energy to convert carbon dioxide and water into organic compounds that they can use for energy. These organisms can have a profound impact on the environment, as they release oxygen as a by-product of their metabolic processes, which has helped to create the oxygen-rich atmosphere we breathe today. Other organisms are chemosynthetic, meaning they obtain energy by oxidizing inorganic compounds, such as hydrogen sulfide, methane, or ammonia. These organisms are typically found in extreme environments, such as deep-sea hydrothermal vents or the guts of some animals. They can also have an impact on their environment, as they can produce or consume these inorganic compounds, which can have ripple effects throughout an ecosystem. Metabolic diversity also plays a role in the carbon cycle and other biogeochemical cycles. For example, some microorganisms can break down complex organic molecules, such as lignin and cellulose, which are resistant to degradation by other organisms. This helps to release carbon back into the ecosystem, which can then be used by other organisms. Other microorganisms play a role in nitrogen fixation, converting atmospheric nitrogen into forms that can be used by plants and other organisms. Overall, understanding the role of metabolic diversity in geobiology can help us to better understand how living organisms have shaped the environment over time, and how they will continue to do so in the future. This Special Issue solicits contributions from researchers working in a wide variety of fields, including Geobiology, Geomicrobiology, Geochemistry, Astrobiology, and Geology. Articles based on original research, shorter communications, and reviews are all encouraged to be submitted to this Special Issue. All submissions will be reviewed in a timely and rigorous manner, and accepted papers will be published online as soon as they are ready.

Dr. Ramganesh Selvarajan
Guest Editor

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• geomicrobiology
• astrobiology
• geochemistry
• metabolic diversity
• microbial signatures
• microbial interactions
• extremophiles