Researchers are still working to understand the function of giant viruses. Recently, scientists discovered mysterious giant viruses on Greenland’s ice sheet, a habitat where they had not previously been found. Previously discovered in the ocean in 1981, these viruses typically infect algae. The recent discovery raises questions about their role in this new environment.
Researchers from Aarhus University in Denmark believe that the giant viruses found in ice sheets may have a positive impact on the environment by helping to reduce ice melting caused by algal blooms. A study on this discovery has been published in the journal Microbiome. Laura Perini, a researcher at Aarhus University, expressed optimism about the potential benefits of these viruses in addressing climate change.
The research team collected samples from various parts of the ice sheet, such as dark ice, ice cores, red and green snow, and melting holes. Upon analyzing the DNA of these samples, sequences matching known giant viruses were identified. These giant viruses were part of a larger ecosystem that included bacteria, filamentous fungi, yeasts, and protists.
Giant viruses, unlike most viruses, are much larger in size and can measure up to 2.5 micrometres, which is larger than many bacteria. Despite their size, these viruses cannot be seen with the naked eye and require specialized tools for detection. Perini emphasized the importance of further research to understand the specific characteristics and potential benefits of these giant viruses in the ice sheet environment.