Spatio-temporal variability of airborne viruses over sub-Antarctic South Georgia: Influence of sampling methodology and proximity of the ocean

Abstract

Studying airborne viruses in remote environments like the sub-Antarctic island South Georgia offers key insights into viral ecology, diversity, and their role in shaping ecosystems through microbial and nutrient interactions. We analyzed airborne viral community composition at two sites in South Georgia. Sampling took place using multiple methodologies, with the data produced subjected to viral metagenomics. The Coriolis {micro} device (wet collection) was the most effective, yielding 30 viral scaffolds. Two-thirds of the scaffolds were only obtained from the coastal location, indicating that location influences airborne viral diversity. Protein-based clustering of 39 viral operational taxonomic units (vOTUs) revealed similarities of 15 with known marine viruses, suggesting oceanic influence on the airborne viral community. Protein homologs related to UV damage protection and photosynthesis from two airborne vOTUs were widely distributed across major oceans, suggesting their potential role in supporting the resilience of marine microorganisms under changing climate conditions. Some vOTUs had protein similarities to viruses infecting extremophiles, indicating viral adaptations to harsh environments. This study provides a baseline for understanding the complexity and sustainability of airborne viral communities in remote ecosystems. It underscores the need for continued monitoring to assess how these communities respond to shifting atmospheric and ecological conditions.