Microbial markets: socio-economic perspective in studying microbial communities

microLife, vol. 5, pp. uqae016

Abstract

Studying microbial communities through a socio-economic lens, this paper draws parallels with human economic transactions and microbes' race for resources. Extending the 'Market Economy' concept of social science to microbial ecosystems, the paper aims to contribute to comprehending the collaborative and competitive dynamics among microorganisms. Created by a multidisciplinary team of an economist, microbiologists, and mathematicians, the paper also highlights the risks involved in employing a socio-economic perspective to explain the complexities of natural ecosystems. Navigating through microbial markets offers insights into the implications of these interactions while emphasizing the need for cautious interpretation within the broader ecological context. We hope that this paper will be a fruitful source of inspiration for future studies on microbial communities.

Authors 5

1. A. Krüger

   Forschungszentrum Jülich

   Affiliation as printed

   Institute of Bio- and Geosciences, IBG-1: Biotechnology, Forschungszentrum Jülich , Wilhelm-Johnen-Straße, 52428 Jülich ,

2. Tim Nies Aachen Department of Biology Computational Life Science

   RWTH Aachen University

   Affiliation as printed

   Computational Life Science, Department of Biology, RWTH Aachen University , Worringerweg 1, 52074 Aachen ,

3. Julia Frunzke

   Forschungszentrum Jülich

   Affiliation as printed

   Institute of Bio- and Geosciences, IBG-1: Biotechnology, Forschungszentrum Jülich , Wilhelm-Johnen-Straße, 52428 Jülich ,

4. Kerstin Schipper

   Heinrich Heine University Düsseldorf

   Affiliation as printed

   Institute of Microbiology, Heinrich-Heine University Dusseldorf , Universitätsstraße 1, 40225 Düsseldorf,

5. Anna Matuszyńska corresponding Aachen Department of Biology Computational Life Science

   RWTH Aachen University

   Affiliation as printed

   Computational Life Science, Department of Biology, RWTH Aachen University , Worringerweg 1, 52074 Aachen ,