Seaweeds and phytoplankton play a crucial role as primary producers in aquatic ecosystems, engaging in complex interactions with a variety of microbial partners forming holobionts. These interactions significantly govern physiological functions, biochemical cycling, adaptability, and the general health of these organisms, thereby affecting the equilibrium of marine ecosystems and influencing the global blue bioeconomy. Despite advances in the field, understanding the complex nature of seaweed and phytoplankton holobionts remains incomplete, posing challenges for advancing sustainable aquaculture, addressing climate change, and exploring novel biotechnological applications.

This Research Topic aims to deepen our understanding of the intricate relationships within seaweed and phytoplankton holobionts. We seek to unravel the mechanisms of microbial interactions, considering mutualistic, commensal, and antagonistic relationships, and their roles in nutrient cycling, chemical signaling, and defense. Further, we aim to understand how environmental factors such as climate change, pollution, and ocean acidification alter holobiont composition and function, and explore adaptive responses to these stressors. The ultimate goal is to discover and develop innovative cultivation strategies, employing new biotechnological tools to enhance the growth, productivity, and resilience of these marine systems.

To gather further insights, this Research Topic welcomes articles addressing, but not limited to, the following themes:

o Characterization of bacteria, archaea, fungi, viruses, and protists associated with seaweed and phytoplankton holobionts
o Mechanisms driving mutualistic, commensal, or antagonistic relationships
o Role of microbial consortia in nutrient cycling, chemical signaling, and defense against pathogens
o Impact of environmental factors on holobiont composition and function
o Development of AI-driven approaches for cultivating seaweed and phytoplankton holobiont assemblies

Types of manuscripts: Original research, reviews, mini-reviews, perspectives, methods, and all article types accepted by the journal. We encourage submissions using multi-omics approaches, high-throughput sequencing, and artificial intelligence to enhance research efficiency and understanding of these intricate biological systems.

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Unveiling the Complexities of Seaweed and Phytoplankton Holobionts: Microbial Interactions and Environmental Impacts