Microbial Markets: Socio-economic Perspective in Studying Microbial Communities

Overview

Journal Microlife

Publisher Oxford University Press

Specialty Microbiology

Date 2024 Sep 25

PMID 39318452

Authors

Fariha Mostafa

Aileen Kruger

Tim Nies

Julia Frunzke

Kerstin Schipper

Anna Matuszynska

Affiliations

Soon will be listed here.

Abstract

Studying microbial communities through a socio-economic lens, this paper draws parallels with human economic transactions and microbes' race for resources. Extending the 'Market Economy' concept of social science to microbial ecosystems, the paper aims to contribute to comprehending the collaborative and competitive dynamics among microorganisms. Created by a multidisciplinary team of an economist, microbiologists, and mathematicians, the paper also highlights the risks involved in employing a socio-economic perspective to explain the complexities of natural ecosystems. Navigating through microbial markets offers insights into the implications of these interactions while emphasizing the need for cautious interpretation within the broader ecological context. We hope that this paper will be a fruitful source of inspiration for future studies on microbial communities.

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