Vol. 24, No. 3 (2025), Bio25514 https://doi.org/10.24275/rmiq/Bio25514

Biotic and abiotic interactions during the decomposition of Sargassum spp. from the Mexican Caribbean

 

Authors

J.A. Domínguez-Maldonado1, R. Tapia-Tussell, E. Olguin-Maciel, K.J. Azcorra-May, E. Sauri-Duch, G. Rivera-Muñoz, G. Lizama-Uc, S.E. Solís-Pereira

Abstract

A study was conducted to examine decomposition process of Sargassum spp., using 1.25-liter conical reactors. This study used a multifaceted approach to analyze the roles of biotic and abiotic factors in the degradation process. The aim of this study was to identify the physicochemical changes in Sargassum spp. To this end, the structural composition of the biomass was analyzed during a period of 150 day. Additionally, the production of leachate and biogas during Sargassum natural degradation process was measured, and the structural changes in microbial communities were evaluated. This study explored the relationship between biogas production and the microorganisms in Sargassum, as well as their potential biotechnological applications. The results of this study indicated the presence of Thermofilum and Methanopyrus microorganisms during the initial degradation stage (0-30 days). These microorganisms are marine archaea that primarily generate greenhouse gases through their metabolic byproducts, including hydrogen sulfide and methane. This observation is particularly salient during the initial stages of degradation when gas production is particularly prolific. A comprehensive understanding of these foundational principles can facilitate the development of effective management strategies for the management of Sargassum spp., which could subsequently lead to the creation of a biotechnological tool to produce high value-added compounds, such as biogas, and fertilizers.

Keywords

Sargassum spp, Sargassum degradation, biotic interactions, abiotic interactions, Caribbean Sargassum.

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