SENSORS UNDER SNOW – SEASONAL PROCESSES IN THE EVOLUTION OF ARCTIC SOILS (SUN SPEARS)
Arctic soils are becoming increasingly widespread because of rapid climate change and large expanses of previously glaciated areas are becoming exposed. SUN SPEARS aims to establish to what extent seasonal processes affect the evolution of pioneer soils in the Arctic. At this scope, we are investigating year-round microbial community activity of the Midtre Lovénbreen glacier forefield, Svalbard. Specifically, the Quandt lab is focusing on the composition and activity of microeukaryotes, especially Fungi. Previous studies have revealed distinct community shifts towards cold-adapted fungi and decomposers in Arctic and Alpine tundra soils over winter. Metagenomic and metatranscriptomic analyses of soils during the transition periods of autumn freeze up and spring melt will fill the knowledge gap on the role of microeukaryotes in the long-term development of Arctic soils.
Photo credits:
Dr. James Bradley
Dr. Lara Vimercati
Dr. James Bradley
Dr. Lara Vimercati