From Animalcules to an Ecosystem: Application of Ecological Concepts to the Human Microbiome (Fierer, et al. 2012)

The two essays on microorganisms were concerned with very similar ideas with very different applications. While Martiny’s essay considered that the properties effecting macroorganisms may be helpful in understanding the dispersal of microorganisms globally, Fierer posits that perhaps those same properties may effect microorganisms on a much smaller scale, within each human being.

Fierer puts forth some interesting ideas such as succession among microbiome communities which could be initiated by disturbances such as treatment with antibiotics (Fig 3). I can’t quite figure out how to square that idea with any sort of climax, especially given the rapid and constant changes in the human microbiome. He also states that taxa of microorganisms may fit into biological niches within the body.

That having been said, I am hesitant to agree entirely with Fierer. As I mentioned in my discussion question last week, the conditions that determine behavior of one species or in one region don’t necessarily do the same to other populations. They may be useful as a guide as to what to study, though there can be no promise as to whether those studies would be fruitful. One particular hurdle facing this line of inquiry is the difficulty inherent in conducting studies given the diversity of microbiomes among individuals. How accurate is a control when abundances of taxa even within family members can vary by up to two orders of magnitude (Turnbaugh et al. 2009a)?

26 thoughts on “From Animalcules to an Ecosystem: Application of Ecological Concepts to the Human Microbiome (Fierer, et al. 2012)

  1. Jack Moore

    Many of the concepts in ecology, such as diverse and species-rich habitats and co-evolution, have parallels in microbiome research.

    One of the most important takeaways from this article is that we do not yet have a complete understanding of all the ecological concepts that are currently being applied to the human microbiome.

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  6. ClearHolidays™

    Your reflection on the essays by Martiny and Fierer regarding microorganisms and their ecological concepts is insightful. You’ve highlighted the contrast between their ideas, with Martiny focusing on the global dispersal of microorganisms and Fierer delving into the intricacies of microbiome communities within the human body.

    Your skepticism regarding Fierer’s proposition, particularly the concept of succession among microbiome communities, is valid. The dynamic and constantly changing nature of the human microbiome indeed poses challenges when trying to establish a definitive climax or stable state.

    You’ve also raised an important point about the limitations of applying ecological concepts to microbiomes, given the significant variability among individuals. This variability makes it challenging to establish reliable control groups for scientific studies.

    Your critical thinking and willingness to question the applicability of ecological concepts to the human microbiome demonstrate a thoughtful approach to scientific literature. It’s essential to maintain a healthy level of skepticism while exploring complex topics like this.

    Thank you for sharing your perspective on these essays, and for highlighting the potential hurdles and uncertainties in this field of research.

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  8. Theo

    Microbes such as bacteria, fungi, and their genetic components play roles that negatively or positively impact human health. The health of a person depends on how environmental and human microbiomes interact.
    This concept also applies to the environment. Since I am knowledgeable in environmental science, I understand that soils and water bodies host microbiome communities that affect entire ecosystems. For instance, healthy soil microbiomes promote the growth of plants and animals, while marine microbiomes support aquatic life.

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