Response of terrestrial microorganisms to ultraviolet-B radiation in ecosystems

Recent studies suggest that ultraviolet-B radiation, a major component of global climate change, can affect the community structure, biomass and functioning of terrestrial microorganisms. In this report, these studies are reviewed and gaps in our understanding highlighted so that future research can provide more conclusive evidence on the mechanisms and wider ecological implications of the impacts of elevated ultraviolet-B radiation on terrestrial microorganisms. (C) 2003 Editions scientifiques et medicales Elsevier SAS. All rights reserved.