DNA extraction bias is more pronounced for microbial eukaryotes than for
prokaryotes
Abstract
DNA extraction and preservation bias is a recurring topic in DNA
sequencing-based microbial ecology. Different methodologies can lead to
distinct outcomes, which has been demonstrated especially in studies
investigating prokaryotic community composition. Eukaryotic microbes are
ubiquitous, diverse, and increasingly a subject of investigation in
addition to bacteria and archaea. However, little is known about how the
choice of DNA preservation and extraction methodology impacts perceived
eukaryotic community composition. In this study, we compared the effect
of two DNA preservation protocols and 6 DNA extraction methods on the
community profiles of both eukaryotes and prokaryotes in phototrophic
biofilms on seagrass (Zostera marina) leaves from the Baltic Sea. We
found that, whereas DNA preservation and extraction method caused
significant bias in perceived community composition for both eukaryotes
and prokaryotes, extraction bias was more pronounced for eukaryotes than
prokaryotes. Especially soft-bodied or hard-shelled eukaryotes like
nematodes and diatoms were differentially abundant depending on the
extraction method. We conclude that careful consideration of DNA
preservation and extraction methodology is crucial to achieving
representative community profiles of eukaryotes in marine biofilms, and
likely all other habitats containing diverse eukaryotic microbial
communities.