Enzymatic assays of sediments from North Pond (IODP Expedition 336) to elucidate microbial phosphorus cycling strategies

Abstract:

Phosphorus (P) is a key macronutrient for living cells and its availability is limited in the deep subseafloor environment, a habitat estimated to contain up to 1% of Earth’s total biomass. The existence and activity of deep subseafloor microbial populations have profound implications on global biogeochemical cycles and our understanding of the limits of life. However, little is known about the impact of the deep biosphere on sedimentary P cycling and P diagenetic processes. Our previous work has shown that sedimentary P at North Pond is mainly present in mineral phases, and that refractory organic P is detectable throughout the sediment column. The latter could constitute a P source to the deep biosphere. Alternatively, microorganisms could have mechanisms to harvest P from recalcitrant mineral phases. The aim of this study is to determine the presence and maximum potential activity of enzymes involved in microbial P uptake in deep-sea sediments. These include phosphomonoesterases, such as alkaline phosphatase, phosphodiesterases, pyrophosphatase and phosphonatases. The sediment samples used for this study were collected at North Pond, a sediment pond located on the western flank of the Mid-Atlantic Ridge, during IODP Expedition 336. This work will provide key insights into the microbial P uptake mechanisms at play in open ocean sediments, and their effects on sedimentary P cycling. These results, in conjunction with our previous work investigating P geochemistry at North Pond, will yield valuable information regarding the impact of the deep biosphere on P cycling in open ocean sediments.