New research uncovers how microbes shape ecosystem resilience
Phys.org
February 14, 2026
AI-Generated Deep Dive Summary
New research reveals how microbes play a critical role in shaping ecosystem resilience, far beyond their impact on human health. Often viewed simplistically as either harmful or beneficial to humans, microbes are actually complex organisms that regulate the health of forests, oceans, and grasslands. Their influence extends to determining how ecosystems respond to environmental changes, such as climate variability, pollution, and land use alterations. This intricate connection underscores the importance of microbial communities in maintaining ecological balance and stability.
Microbial diversity is key to understanding their role in ecosystems. These tiny organisms are not only diverse but also highly adaptable, thriving in various habitats from soil to water and even extreme environments. Their collective functions include nutrient cycling, decomposition of organic matter, and production of gases like methane and hydrogen. These processes are essential for regulating global biogeochemical cycles, particularly carbon cycling, which directly impacts climate change.
The resilience of ecosystems, or their ability to recover from disturbances, is significantly influenced by microbial activity. For instance, microbes help in the recovery of degraded lands by breaking down organic material and facilitating
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Originally published on Phys.org on 2/14/2026