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The Vertebrate Genome Project (VGP) released 101 new, genomes, which they dub as  “high quality chromosome level” assemblies.  GIGA held a very well received session on its own, and interacted with other EBP groups, such as i5K. EBP continued to push its mission to obtain genomes from about 9000 eukaryotes at the family level in its three … Continue reading The first joint VGP/EGP/i5K/GIGA/G10K conference held at Rockefeller University, Aug 27-30, 2019

Characterizations of the identity and diversity of microbial symbiotic communities (“microbiomes”) within different sponges have advanced considerably over the last two decades. Thousands of microbes, mostly unculturable, operational taxonomic units (OTUs) have been identified through the advances of high-throughput DNA sequencing. However, in spite of compelling data pointing to bona fide symbioses between many microbes … Continue reading After the Taxonomic Identification Phase: Addressing the Functions of Symbiotic Communities within Marine Invertebrates

Based on modern microbiology, we propose a major revision in current space exploration philosophy and planetary protection policy, especially regarding microorganisms in space. Mainly, microbial introduction should not be considered accidental but inevitable. We hypothesize the near impossibility of exploring new planets without carrying and/or delivering any microbial travelers. In addition, although we highlight the … Continue reading Inevitable Future: Space Colonization Beyond Earth with Microbes First

Cole G. Easson & Jose V. Lopez The Gulf of Mexico (GoM) is a dynamic marine ecosystem influenced by multiple natural and anthropogenic processes and inputs, such as the intrusion of warm oligotrophic water via the Loop Current, freshwater and nutrient input by the Mississippi River, and hydrocarbon inputs via natural seeps and industrial spills. … Continue reading Environmental drivers of bacterioplankton community structure in the northern Gulf of Mexico