Deep-sea shipwrecks represent island-like ecosystems for marine microbiomes

This study investigates the impact of deep-sea shipwrecks on marine microbiomes. Researchers found that the richness and diversity of microbiomes increase closer to the *Anona* shipwreck in the Gulf of Mexico, demonstrating an 'island effect'. A halo of core taxa extended up to 200 m from the wreck, highlighting the shipwreck's significant influence on the surrounding seabed. This contrasts with smaller transition zones observed around natural habitats, suggesting shipwrecks exert a larger impact. The abundance of shipwrecks globally makes them valuable sites for understanding biogeography on the seafloor.

Leila J. Hamdan, Justyna J. Hampel, Rachel D. Moseley, Rachel L. Mugge, Anirban Ray, Jennifer L. Salerno, Melanie Damour