shortgun metagenomic sequencing of benthic mats from north creek, Zion national park, utah at sampling event 3
This study investigates nutrient cycling and toxin production in benthic cyanobacterial mats collected from two sites in the Virgin River, Zion National Park. Samples were taken at three time points under nutrient-limited conditions, with reactive phosphorus and dissolved inorganic nitrogen often below detection limits. Shotgun metagenomic sequencing was conducted to assess microbial community composition and functional genes related to phosphorus and nitrogen cycling, with a focus on cyanobacteria such as Microcoleus and associated heterotrophic bacteria.