PubMed · 2026-01-01
Researchers discovered over 5,700 unique hybrid genetic elements—called phage-plasmids—that blur the line between viruses and mobile DNA, found in environments ranging from soil and freshwater to plant and animal hosts. These elements carry environment-specific genes, suggesting they actively shape microbial communities across diverse ecosystems.
5,712 unique phage-plasmid-like genomes were identified across nine distinct environment types including soil, freshwater, saltwater, and plant-associated niches.
Host-associated environments (human, animal, plant) contained the highest density of defense systems including CRISPR and anti-CRISPR genes, as well as antibiotic resistance genes.
Freshwater and saltwater environments preferentially encoded biosynthetic pathway components, suggesting niche-specific metabolic roles for these elements.