Fifty important research questions in microbial ecology

摘要: Microbial ecology provides insights into the ecological and evolutionary dynamics of microbial communities underpinning every ecosystem on Earth. can now be investigated in unprecedented detail, although there is still a wealth open questions to tackled. Here we identify 50 research fundamental importance science or application ecology, with intention summarising field bringing focus new avenues. Questions are categorised seven themes: host–microbiome interactions; health infectious diseases; human food security; changing world; environmental processes; functional diversity; processes. Many recognise that microbes provide an extraordinary array diversity harnessed solve real-world problems. Our limited knowledge spatial temporal variation function also reflected, as need integrate micro- macro-ecological concepts, derived from studies humans other diverse organisms. Although not exhaustive, presented intended stimulate discussion for researchers, funders policy makers, informing future agenda ecology.