Aquatic Phototrophic Communities: Insights into Light-driven Ecological Dynamics, Volume II

Following the success of the first volume of Aquatic Phototrophic Communities: Insights into Light-driven Ecological Dynamics, we are pleased to launch this second volume to continue and broaden the discussion.Aquatic phototrophic communities play a fundamental role in ecosystem dynamics, driven by their interaction with light as a vital resource. Their responses to light span every scale, from molecular light-harvesting and photoprotection within a single cell to the behavior, biotic interactions, and population dynamics of whole communities. Understanding these responses is crucial for comprehending ecosystem functioning and conserving aquatic ecosystems, across marine, freshwater, and polar systems alike.Despite recent advances in photoecology, significant gaps remain in our understanding of how light; its intensity, spectral quality, and seasonal or under-ice variability; shapes these communities, particularly under environmental change and anthropogenic impacts such as light pollution. Addressing these gaps is essential for developing effective conservation strategies and ensuring the resilience of aquatic ecosystems.This Research Topic aims to investigate the multifaceted role of light in shaping aquatic phototrophic communities, from cellular and molecular photophysiology to community-level ecological dynamics. We welcome contributions from marine, freshwater, and polar systems, and encourage work that bridges mechanism and ecology.We welcome articles addressing, but not limited to, the following themes:- The role of light in shaping ecological dynamics and biotic interactions in aquatic systems- Relationships between light and biodiversity in aquatic ecosystems- Influence of light on the behavior and dynamics of aquatic organisms- Photophysiology, photoacclimation, and photoprotection in aquatic phototrophs- Effects of light quality and spectral composition, including chromatic acclimation- Light regimes in extreme and seasonal environments (e.g., sea ice, under-ice, and polar systems)- Light-driven interactions among phototrophs, bacteria, viruses, and grazers- Ecological impacts of light pollution on aquatic environments- Harmful effects of light on aquatic ecosystems- Light as a driver of symbiotic relationships within phototrophic communities- Strategies for promoting the resilience and conservation of aquatic phototrophic communitiesThis scope facilitates interdisciplinary collaboration, encouraging researchers from diverse backgrounds to contribute to the broader field of photoecology and environmental photobiology.We welcome submissions of the following article types: Brief Research Report, Data Report, General Commentary, Hypothesis & Theory, Methods, Mini Review, Opinion, Original Research, Perspective, Review, and Systematic Review. Topic editors: Herwig Stibor, Johann Lavaud Source: https://www.frontiersin.org/research-topics/83836/aquatic-phototrophic-communities-insights-into-light-driven-ecological-dynamics-volume-ii