title: HOW DO MICROBIAL POPULATIONS AND COMMUNITIES FUNCTION AS MODEL SYSTEMS?
abstract: Microbial model systems have made major contributions across the life sciences. Their influence extends beyond strictly microbiological research to inform and enhance general biological understanding. To cast light on how microbial populations and communities function as model systems, we examine their use in historical and contemporary research on evolutionary and ecological dynamics. We assess the pros and cons of microbial model systems, and identify specific ways in which they benefit research. Analyzing microbial model systems is of particular value as biologists become increasingly aware of the microbial world and its interactions with the rest of life.
authors.forename: Maureen A
authors.initials: MA
authors.lastname: O'Malley
authors.forename: Michael
authors.initials: M
authors.lastname: Travisano
authors.forename: Gregory J
authors.initials: GJ
authors.lastname: Velicer
authors.forename: Jessica A
authors.initials: JA
authors.lastname: Bolker
mesh_terms: D000818:Animals; D001419:Bacteria / Q000235:genetics / Q000254:growth & development*; D005075:Biological Evolution; D017753:Ecosystem; D005658:Fungi / Q000235:genetics / Q000254:growth & development*; D015964:Gene Expression Regulation, Bacterial; D015966:Gene Expression Regulation, Fungal; D005828:Genetics, Population; D054884:Host-Pathogen Interactions; D006801:Humans; D056265:Microbial Interactions; D064307:Microbiota / Q000235:genetics; D008954:Models, Biological; D011157:Population Dynamics; D012641:Selection, Genetic; D013045:Species Specificity