A Comprehensive Metagenomic Analysis Framework Revealing Microbiome Profile and Potential for Hydrocarbon Degradation and Carbohydrate Metabolism in a Himalayan Artificial Lake

Abstract

The high-altitude lakes are ecological habitats accommodating a vast diversity of microbial populations. These microbes are efficient sources for a variety of enzymes. The objective of this study is to perform in-depth metagenomic profiling of an artificial lake ecosystem located in the Sikkim Himalayan region, deciphering the hydrocarbon degradation potential of this site and mining biocatalysts of industrial importance. In the present study, metagenomic analysis of an artificial Himalayan lake, located in North Sikkim, India, was performed. A comprehensive taxonomic and functional profiling revealed gene mapped to pathways for degradation of hydrocarbons such as toluene, benzoate, ethylbenzene, etc. This site was rich in iron, and the metagenomic investigation revealed genomic signatures of the iron-reducing bacterium; Geothrix fermentans. The appraisal of the carbohydrate metabolic potential of this site divulged the predominance of β-galactosidase genes. The artificial lake metagenome was further compared to publicly available saline and freshwater lakes. At the taxonomic, as well as functional levels, it was found to be closer to freshwater lake metagenome, e.g., Medonta Lake, US, and freshwater Vanda Lake, Antarctica. The microbial community profiling and functional contribution of the artificial Himalayan lake would be beneficial for mining genes encoding various industrially relevant enzymes.