Laura Randall Schweppe Endowed Lecture Series in Marine Science

Abstract:

One of the most fascinating seafloor spreading centers, Guaymas Basin in the Gulf of California, contains a complex mosaic of distinct seafloor ecosystems. Here, it is possible to observe a highly dynamic and diverse geobiological seafloor landscape where active hydrothermalism, cold methane seepage and natural petroleum discharge coexist within tens of miles and sustain characteristic benthic ecosystems. Submersible observations reveal visually outstanding sulfide-oxidizing microbial mats, including some of the largest bacterial filaments on Earth, and invertebrate fauna and microbiota associated with petroleum seepage through seafloor mineral concretions that represent hot spots of fossil carbon-fueled benthic life., the diversity of energy-rich redox couples and carbon sources at the Guaymas seafloor fuels exceptionally rich microbial life, much of it within reach for modern microbial surveys using metagenomic techniques, and highly relevant for reconstructing the tree of life.

Biography: 

Andreas P. Teske is a Research Professor in the Department of Earth, Marine, and Environmental Sciences at the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill. He specializes in microbial ecology, with a focus on microbial diversity, metabolism, and biogeochemical processes in deep-sea and hydrothermal environments. His research has extensively examined the microbial communities of the Guaymas Basin in the Gulf of California, investigating how geological and geochemical conditions shape microbial life beneath the seafloor. Teske has led multiple oceanographic research expeditions and helped advance deep-sea drilling research, including serving as a proponent and co-chief scientist for International Ocean Discovery Program Expedition 385. He has authored more than 250 scientific publications and has received approximately $9.2 million in research funding throughout his career. His contributions to marine microbiology include research leadership, editorial service, and mentoring graduate students and postdoctoral researchers.