Mixing Up the Rules: How Bacteria Break Their Own Boundaries

In the hot, bubbling waters of Yellowstone, something unexpected is happening. Bacteria, usually known for sticking to their own kind, are mixing it up. This isn't just a one-time thing. It's been going on for thousands of years.

Scientists looked at over 300 single-cell genomes of these bacteria. They found that different species of cyanobacteria are swapping genes. This mixing is not random. It's driven by natural selection. This challenges the old idea that bacteria stay separate because of their environment.

Bacterial Gene Sharing: A Long-Term Phenomenon

Bacteria are known for sharing genes. But they usually stay within their own species. This keeps their genetic identity intact. Ecological differences can create barriers. These barriers can keep species separate in the short term. But what about the long term?

The cyanobacteria in Yellowstone have been coexisting for a long time. This makes them a perfect case study.

Widespread Hybridization: A Major Source of Genetic Diversity

The findings show that despite forming distinct groups, these bacteria are mixing. This mixing is widespread. It's not just a rare event. This suggests that hybridization is a major source of genetic diversity. It's not just a side effect. It's a driving force in evolution. This is a big deal. It changes how we think about bacterial evolution.

Advanced Genomic Techniques Reveal Large-Scale Hybridization

The study used advanced genomic techniques. It analyzed a large number of single-cell genomes. This gave a detailed picture of the genetic diversity. The results show that hybridization is not just possible. It's happening on a large scale. This has implications for how we understand bacterial species. It also has implications for how we think about evolution.

Challenging the Prevailing View

The findings challenge the prevailing view. They show that ecological barriers are not enough. They can't prevent genetic mixing over long periods. This is important. It changes our understanding of bacterial evolution. It also highlights the role of hybridization. It's not just a rare event. It's a major force in shaping bacterial genomes.