Biology subjects

Ostrovsky, A. N.

Publications and source records attributed to Ostrovsky, A. N..

3 recordsLinked to original sources

bioRxiv2026

Novel "Candidatus Endobugula" hosts and distinct microbiomes in the bryozoans from the White Sea

Marine bryozoans harbor diverse microbial communities, but not much is known about specificity of bacterial symbionts towards different hosts. We identified potential symbionts and described overall microbial communities of three marine bryozoans, Aquiloniella scabra, Rhamphostomella bilaminata (Gymnolaemata: Cheilostomatida), and Patinella verrucaria (Stenolaemata: Cyclostomatida), revealing that each species maintains a distinct microbial assemblage that differs both from the surrounding environmental microbiome and from other hosts. Previously, the bryostatin-producing gammaproteobacterial genus "Candidatus Endobugula" was known from only two bryozoan species in the family Bugulidae. Here, we report its first detection in two more cheilostome bryozoans, A. scabra and R. bilaminata, expanding its known host range to two more families.

ecology↗

bioRxiv2022

Seasonal dynamics of a complex cheilostome bryozoan symbiosis - vertical transfer challenged

Symbiotic associations are dynamic systems influenced by both intrinsic and extrinsic factors. Here we describe for the first time the developmental and seasonal changes of the funicular bodies in the bryozoan Dendrobeania fruticosa, which are unique temporary organs of cheilostome bryozoans containing prokaryotic symbionts. Histological and ultrastructural studies showed that these organs undergo strong seasonal modification in the White Sea during the ice-free period. Initially (in June) they play a trophic function and support the development of a large population of bacteria. From June to September, both funicular bodies and bacteria show signs of degradation accompanied by development of presumed virus-like particles (VLPs); these self-organize to hollow spheres inside bacteria and are also detected outside of them. Although the destruction of bacteria coincides with the development of VLPs and spheres, the general picture differs considerably from the known instances of bacteriophagy in bryozoans. We broadly discuss potential routes of bacterial infection in Bryozoa and question the hypothesis of vertical transfer, which, although popular in the literature, is contradicted by molecular, morphological and ecological evidence.

zoology↗

bioRxiv2019

Comparative genomic analysis of Cristatella mucedo provides insights into Bryozoan evolution and nervous system function

This manuscript has been withdrawn by the authors as it was submitted without the full consent of all the authors. Therefore, the authors do not wish this work to be cited as reference for the project. If you have any questions, please contact the corresponding author.

genomics↗