Eukaryotic microorganisms, or protists, are essential ecological agents that populate various environments like aquatic and soil systems. These organisms vary widely from autotrophs, which contribute fundamentally to primary production, to heterotrophs that act as vital intermediaries in food webs. While traditional morphological identification has been helpful, the integration of environmental DNA and modern molecular techniques such as metabarcoding has significantly expanded our understanding of the vast diversity and distribution of these microorganisms. Yet, despite advancements, a large segment of microbial diversity remains uncharacterized, posing a challenge to our understanding of protist evolution and their roles in ecosystems.

This Research Topic aims to deepen the understanding of the diversity and evolutionary processes of eukaryotic microorganisms through comprehensive methodologies. By incorporating classical cultivation and innovative molecular techniques, this research intends not only to explore undocumented species but also to integrate them into the broader eukaryotic phylogenetic framework. Insights into these organisms' ecological functions and evolutionary relationships will highlight their significance in maintaining environmental balance and biodiversity.

To gain a broader understanding of the complexity and implications of eukaryotic microbial diversity, contributions are invited on the following themes:

-Overview of common eukaryotic microorganisms across different ecosystems
-Advanced methods for identifying and classifying eukaryotic diversity in aquatic and soil environments
-Case studies that elucidate the ecological roles of protists
-Novel research that connects undetected eukaryotic lineages with larger ecological and evolutionary processes
-Cultivation-based approaches complemented by cutting-edge molecular techniques to uncover and catalog protist diversity
-Comparative studies that enhance our understanding of eukaryotic microorganisms' evolutionary connections

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Exploring the Hidden Diversity of Eukaryotic Microorganisms