An almost unknown biological reserve inhabits the coral reefs and could disappear before being explored. Research warns that hundreds of microbes with potential for medicine and biotechnology are at risk due to the accelerated deterioration of these ecosystems.
The study, published in Nature, indicates that the loss of coral biodiversity not only affects visible fish and corals. It also compromises thousands of unknown microorganisms, implying irreparable damage to a genuine natural pharmacy.
Since 1950, approximately half of the world’s corals have disappeared, mainly due to the increase in ocean temperature. Consequently, the collapse of the reefs also threatens the microbial communities that depend on them.
The genetic treasure revealed by Tara Pacific
The research was led by scientists from the ETH Zurich, EPFL, and the Tara Pacific Consortium. They analyzed more than 800 samples collected during an expedition of the Tara ship in the Pacific Ocean.
The team mainly examined stony and fire corals with the aim of reconstructing the genetic profile of their microscopic inhabitants. Through high-performance computers, they managed to reconstruct the genomes of 645 bacterial and archaeal species.
More than 99% of these species did not have previous genomic information. Furthermore, the analyses showed that these microbes are not widely distributed in the open ocean, but appear exclusively within the reefs and, in many cases, associated with specific corals.
Biotechnological potential and environmental urgency
The researchers not only described new species but also identified genetic blueprints linked to the production of biochemical compounds. Consequently, they detected an extraordinary potential to generate natural products useful in medicine and biotechnology.
The high density of life in the reefs favors the evolution of a diverse chemical arsenal. Therefore, these microorganisms produce substances to defend themselves from pathogens and predators, many of which could have unexplored applications.
However, the impoverishment of corals would imply the simultaneous disappearance of thousands of unknown microbes. Thus, the impact would be both ecological and scientific, with opportunities for innovation being lost before even being discovered.
The ecological role of coral reefs
Coral reefs are considered one of the most diverse ecosystems on the planet. They act as shelters, breeding and feeding areas for thousands of marine species.
Additionally, they function as natural barriers that cushion the impact of storms and reduce coastal erosion. In this way, they protect both biodiversity and human communities that depend on them.
Moreover, corals sustain complex symbiotic networks, including the microbiomes that now reveal their hidden value. Consequently, protecting the reefs not only preserves underwater landscapes but also an invisible and essential biological heritage for oceanic balance.
