Fatty acid signatures of sediment microbial community in the chronically polluted mangrove ecosystem

Phospholipid fatty acid (PLFA) analysis was used to examine variation in the distribution of microbial communities in heavily polluted mangrove sediments of Thane creek, west coast of India. A total of 40 individual PLFAs representing 11 functional groups were identified in the sediment and were mainly dominated by saturated fatty acids (anaerobic prokaryotes) 1%) were detected in the sediment indicating their sensitivity to anthropic stressors. Homogenous profile of microbial diversity indicating active bioturbation. Cumulative metabolic stress evident from SAT/MUFA ( 1), B/F (>1) and G thorn /G- (<1) ratio and prolonged hypoxia to be prevalent in the creek during the study. In conclusion, PLFA signatures can thus be used as potential biomarkers of environmental monitoring and proxy for interpreting ecosystem health.

Automated summary

PLFA analysis was used to study the microbial community distribution in heavily polluted mangrove sediments of Thane creek, west coast of India. The analysis revealed sensitivity and active microbial diversity in the sediment. Furthermore, cumulative metabolic stress was evident from various indicators such as SAT/MUFA ratio and prolonged hypoxia.