New Ohio Sea Grant research uses microbes to understand Lake Erie health

Ohio Sea Grant Researchers Study Microbe Diversity in Lake Erie

Ohio Sea Grant researchers at The University of Toledo have conducted a study over the past two summers to examine the diversity of bacteria and algae in Lake Erie. These microorganisms play a crucial role in the lake’s ecosystems by providing energy through photosynthesis for the entire aquatic food web.

Importance of Microbes in Ecosystems

Microbes are both the foundation of a healthy ecosystem and a potential source of issues for humans and other organisms. Understanding their interconnections, functions, and roles within the lower food web is vital for assessing the overall health and resilience of Lake Erie’s ecosystem.

Research Methodology

The research team, led by Trisha Spanbauer, assistant professor of environmental sciences at The University of Toledo, collected aquatic microbes from nine sample sites along the shoreline. These sites represented different land uses and shoreline management techniques, including areas with agricultural and industrial impact, as well as intact wetlands. The collected samples were then subjected to DNA analysis using high-throughput sequencing to identify species, genus, or family and quantify the diversity of the microbiome.

Data Analysis and Implications

The team is currently analyzing the collected data to identify resilient and vulnerable environments in the lake. This information will be shared with partner agencies, such as the Ohio Department of Natural Resources Coastal Management Office and the Old Woman Creek National Estuarine Research Reserve. The results may also help identify ecological indicators that can predict changes in the ecosystem before it reaches a state where it no longer provides essential services.

Preliminary data suggests that silica, along with factors like temperature and stratification, may influence competition among algae and contribute to harmful algal blooms. Silica is abundant in the Great Lakes and is found in minerals like quartz and sandstone.

Community Science Initiative: ERIeDNA

As part of the project, Spanbauer’s team has initiated a community science program called ERIeDNA. This program involves University of Toledo students and local residents in the research process. Participants collect water samples from nearby sources, filter them, and return the filters to the researchers for analysis. Spanbauer plans to expand the program and create kits that people can use to collect and filter water samples.

“This technique is easy to implement, and sequencing has become more affordable. It provides an opportunity for everyone to better understand these microscopic organisms that sustain healthy fisheries in the Western Basin,” said Spanbauer.

Learn more about this Sea Grant-funded research during Dr. Spanbauer’s Freshwater Science webinar on Oct. 31.

SDGs, Targets, and Indicators

1. Sustainable Development Goal: Life Below Water (SDG 14)

• Target 14.1: By 2025, prevent and significantly reduce marine pollution of all kinds, in particular from land-based activities, including marine debris and nutrient pollution.
• Indicator 14.1.1: Index of coastal eutrophication and floating plastic debris density.

The article discusses the importance of understanding the diversity and functions of microbes in Lake Erie’s ecosystems. This is directly connected to SDG 14, which aims to conserve and sustainably use the oceans, seas, and marine resources. The study conducted by the researchers contributes to the understanding of the health and resilience of Lake Erie’s ecosystem, which is crucial for achieving SDG 14. The specific target under SDG 14 that can be identified based on the article’s content is Target 14.1, which focuses on reducing marine pollution from land-based activities. The article mentions the collection of samples to study microbe diversity and their connection to human and organismal issues, indicating the relevance of Target 14.1.

2. Sustainable Development Goal: Life on Land (SDG 15)

• Target 15.1: By 2020, ensure the conservation, restoration, and sustainable use of terrestrial and inland freshwater ecosystems and their services.
• Indicator 15.1.1: Forest area as a proportion of total land area.

The article highlights the collection of samples from different land uses and shoreline management techniques to study microbe diversity in Lake Erie. This connects to SDG 15, which focuses on the conservation and sustainable use of terrestrial ecosystems. The specific target under SDG 15 that can be identified based on the article’s content is Target 15.1, which aims to ensure the conservation and sustainable use of terrestrial and inland freshwater ecosystems and their services. The article mentions the collection of samples from different land uses, including agricultural and industrial areas, as well as intact wetlands, indicating the relevance of Target 15.1.

3. Sustainable Development Goal: Partnerships for the Goals (SDG 17)

• Target 17.16: Enhance the Global Partnership for Sustainable Development, complemented by multi-stakeholder partnerships that mobilize and share knowledge, expertise, technology, and financial resources.
• Indicator 17.16.1: Number of countries reporting progress in multi-stakeholder development effectiveness monitoring frameworks that support the achievement of the sustainable development goals.

The article mentions that the research findings will be provided to partner agencies, including the Ohio Department of Natural Resources Coastal Management Office and the Old Woman Creek National Estuarine Research Reserve. This demonstrates the importance of partnerships in achieving sustainable development goals. The specific target under SDG 17 that can be identified based on the article’s content is Target 17.16, which focuses on enhancing the global partnership for sustainable development. The article mentions the collaboration between researchers and partner agencies, indicating the relevance of Target 17.16.

SDGs, Targets, and Indicators

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Source: highlandcountypress.com

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