Presenter
Kylie O'Keefe
Document Type
Poster
Publication Date
2026
Abstract
Viruses are abundant biological entities that influence microbial population dynamics, evolution, and biogeochemical cycling through infection, cell lysis, and gene transfer. Viruses remain understudied in deep-sea environments characterized by extreme conditions that limit survival to specialized microorganisms. This study investigates viral diversity, distribution, and functional potential at hydrothermal vent ecosystems along the Mid-Atlantic Ridge. Viral and microbial communities were sampled from three vent sites - Puy des Folles, EMARK, and Hydra - ranging in depth from 1,100 to 4,000 meters. Metagenomic sequencing and bioinformatic analysis were used to identify viral taxonomy and identify auxiliary metabolic genes (AMGs) encoded within viral contigs. Preliminary analyses of these samples indicate that double-stranded DNA phages were the most abundant viral groups present. Viral community and AMG representation varied among sites, with deeper and more isolated vents, exhibiting greater viral diversity and more complex functional gene profiles. AMGs associated with organic nitrogen and other metabolomic processes were most detected in vent fluid samples compared to background water samples, suggesting a potential role for viruses in influencing host metabolism and nutrient cycling. Taken together, this work aims to improve our understanding of viral ecology, virus-host interactions, and the contribution of viruses to biochemical processes in deep-sea ecosystems.
Faculty Mentor
Bayleigh Benner, Ph.D.
Academic Discipline
College of Arts & Sciences
Repository Citation
O'Keefe, Kylie, "Viral Ecology of Mid-Atlantic Ridge Vents" (2026). Student Research Design & Innovation Symposium. 283.
https://scholarsarchive.jwu.edu/innov_symposium/283
