Severe Environmental Conditions Research Articles

Transcriptome Responses to Different Environments in Intertidal Zones in the Peanut Worm Sipunculus nudus.

The peanut worm (Sipunculus nudus) is an important intertidal species worldwide. Species living in the same aquaculture area might suffer different environmental impacts. To increase knowledge of the molecular mechanisms underlying the response to environmental fluctuations, we performed a transcriptome analysis of S. nudus from different intertidal zones using a combination of the SMRT platform and the Illumina sequencing platform. (1) A total of 105,259 unigenes were assembled, and 23,063 unigenes were perfectly annotated. The results of the PacBio Iso-Seq and IIIumina RNA-Seq enriched the genetic database of S. nudus. (2) A total of 830 DEGs were detected in S. nudus from the different groups. In particular, 33 DEGs had differential expression in the top nine KEGG pathways related to pathogens, protein synthesis, and cellular immune response and signaling. The results indicate that S. nudus from different zones experience different environmental stresses. (3) Several DEGs (HSPA1, NFKBIA, eEF1A, etc.) in pathways related to pathogens (influenza A, legionellosis, measles, and toxoplasmosis) had higher expression in groups M and L. HSPA1 was clearly enriched in most of the pathways, followed by NFKBIA. The results show that the peanut worms from the M and L tidal flats might have suffered more severe environmental conditions. (4) Some DEGs (MKP, MRAS, and HSPB1) were upregulated in peanut worms from the H tidal flat, and these DEGs were mainly involved in the MAPK signaling pathway. These results indicate that the MAPK pathway may play a vital role in the immune response of the peanut worm to the effects of different intertidal flats. This study provides a valuable starting point for further studies to elucidate the molecular basis of the response to different environmental stresses in S. nudus.

Framed reef modules: a new and cost‐effective tool for coral restoration

Coral reef ecosystems worldwide are facing significant damage due to climate change and human disturbances. Consequently, restoration actions have been implemented to repair degraded reef areas. However, many restoration efforts have been hindered by severe environmental conditions, which can hamper restoration success and create challenges in developing cost‐effective coral reef restoration methods. To address this, we conducted a study to test a low‐cost reef restoration tool known as “framed reef modules” (FRMs), specifically aiming to mitigate the impacts of typhoons. We measured the growth rates (after 300 days) and survivorship (after 400 days) of Acropora hyacinthus and A. microphthalma fragments located at different distances from substrates (H0, H10, H30, and H45). The FRMs were exposed to multiple typhoons, and despite the harsh conditions, they remained undamaged. For comparison, we also examined basalt grid plates buried in gravel. After 400 days, the H45 FRMs showed the highest survival rates (A. hyacinthus 86% and A. microphthalma 90%) compared to H30 FRMs (A. hyacinthus 80% and A. microphthalma 84%), H10 FRMs (A. hyacinthus 4% and A. microphthalma 24%), and H0 FRMs (A. hyacinthus 3% and A. microphthalma 22%). It was found that transplanted corals with a height of at least 30 cm from the substrate demonstrated resilience against impacts caused by macroalgae, turf algae, and sedimentation rates. This study showed the effectiveness of an ecological engineering approach using FRMs to enhance the three‐dimensional complexity of restored reefs and rehabilitate coral reefs damaged by typhoons. Furthermore, this method offered reduced costs and improved reef resilience.

A Biomorphic Approach to Designing Special-Purpose Vehicles for Arctic Conditions.

The paper explores the potential of the biomorphic approach to context-based design with a focus on special-purpose mobility in the Arctic. The study seeks to contribute to the analytical and conceptual basis for developing the transport component of the Arctic life-support system, i.e., a set of objects and technologies, and knowledge and skills for handling them, allowing a person to survive and comfortably exist in severe environmental conditions. The central argument is that the system should incorporate structural components that possess not only technical but also artistic and emotional characteristics that align with the geographic (environmental and climatic), socio-cultural, and psychological peculiarities of use. This can be achieved by drawing inspiration from local nature. We probe the visual image of "soft military presence" using two case studies in different parts of the Russian Arctic: the Yamal and Chukchi peninsulas.

A Review of Physicochemical Stabilization for Improved Engineering Properties of Clays

Severe climatic and environmental conditions warrant the use of stabilization agents in aid of compaction for sustainable improvement in engineering properties of clays. Physicochemical agents are a viable option because they are cost effective, environmentally friendly, and offer improved long-term performance of treated soils. This research developed a fundamental understanding of the clay–water–electrolyte admixtures relations. Based on a comprehensive literature review, the effect of nanomaterials, biopolymers, and geopolymers on the behavior of compacted clays was investigated. It was found that all of these admixtures facilitate the development of an aggregated soil microstructure through unique mechanisms. Biopolymers have the highest water adsorption capacity followed by geopolymers and then by nanomaterials. The effect of admixtures on optimum compaction properties follows a decreasing trend similar to untreated clays (S = 80% ± 20%). The variation of hydraulic conductivity, compression index, and compressive strength are largely within the family of curves identified by typical relationships for compacted clays. These preliminary findings indicate that not all engineering properties are improved to the same level by the different types of physicochemical admixtures. The specific nature of geotechnical engineering (soil type and site conditions) as well as the wide range of admixture types and potential biodegradation of some of the reagents are the major shortcoming of using this class of materials.

Assessment of the performance and compatibility of acrylic polymer and silane based consolidants on deteriorated heritage masonry units subjected to salt weathering

Heritage structures are susceptible to deterioration as they age naturally and are exposed to severe environmental conditions. One way to prolong the lifespan of these structures and reduce the rate of deterioration is through the application of consolidative treatments. This treatment acts by penetrating the permeable surface of the substrate and attempt to increase cohesion among the grains and reduce the impact of adverse environmental conditions. However, ensuring compatibility between the consolidant and the substrate is complex, which depends on the substrates’ material characteristics and its exposure conditions. If the wrong consolidant is chosen, it can accelerate deterioration instead of restoring the structure. This study aims to evaluate the effectiveness and compatibility of two types of commonly used consolidants, namely acrylic-polymer and silane-based consolidants, on samples of stone and fired clay bricks of varying qualities and characteristics commonly found in heritage masonry structures. The performance of the consolidants is assessed by comparing the initial physical, mechanical and microstructural properties of the substrate samples obtained through various testing methods, with the properties of treated and untreated samples after being subjected to accelerated weathering in order to analyze the weathering resistance. After which, a secondary comparison is made by treating the weathered untreated samples in order to assess the extent of restoration that happened when the consolidants are applied to the damaged samples. The results obtained from this study will guide decision makers who wish to use silane or polymer based consolidative treatments on heritage structures so that they can understand what kind of results to expect with respect to the substrate and the properties it possesses. From this they can make informed decisions to choose the treatment best for them in order to address their respective needs.

A review on detailed understanding and recent advances on Colletotrichum capsici causing anthracnose of chilli.

Chilli is one of the most significant spice crops cultivated with numerous culinary, medicinal, and industrial applications. Colletotrichum have a wide host range causing anthracnose disease in various crops whereas in chili anthracnose caused by Colletotrichum capsici is the major constraint in chili production. Under severe environmental conditions, the symptoms appear all over the plant including fruit which lead to complete crop damage. The particular disease has a huge economic impact on yield reduction and also debars the export criteria due to the less quality of chili crop. Management of the disease is difficult under field conditions and majority of the management strategies are highly dependent on the use of chemicals. Solely rely on chemicals is harmful to environmental and human health so integrated disease management approach can help to manage the disease at the initial stage. Detection and identification of pathogen play a major role in pathogen management. Early identification and detection of the pathogen based on conventional and molecular methods are very important to reduce yield loss under field conditions. The current review consists of a detailed understanding of the pathogen, identification, detection and diagnosis, and the most recent research updates.

Polylactide Films with Superhydrophobicity and Superior Mechanical Properties Constructed by Combining Annealing Stretching and Nonsolvent-Induced Phase Separation

Polylactide (PLA) is regarded as one of the most promising substitutes for petroleum-based thermoplastics, but the inherent nature of hydrophilicity and poor toughness severely limits its widespread application. In this work, PLA films with superhydrophobicity and outstanding mechanical properties are fabricated by combing “annealing stretching” and nonsolvent-induced phase separation (NIPS)-based surface modification. The prepared films have low surface adhesion characteristics, exhibiting water contact angles of up to 163.4° and extremely small sliding angles as low as 1°. Excellent self-cleaning function to solid contaminates and good repellency to several liquid contaminates are also demonstrated. In addition, the strong interfacial adhesion between the structured surface coating and the substrate enables the PLA films to resist various chemical and mechanical damages, exhibiting splendid durability under severe environmental conditions. Moreover, a superb stiffness–toughness balance is obtained. The tensile strength, Young’s modulus, and elongation at break of the fabricated PLA film are 98.9 MPa, 2.87 GPa, and 91.7%, respectively, which are dramatically improved compared to that of the unstructured casting PLA film (57.6 MPa, 1.57 GPa, and 21.0%, respectively). This work would provide significant guidance for the facile and potentially large-scale preparation of PLA films with mechanical robustness and superhydrophobicity and could broaden their application scope to self-cleaning and moisture-proof fields.

Main diseases of avocado in Brazil

There may be many factors contributing to reduction in longevity and productivity in avocado trees, especially diseases of fungal and fungal-like pathogens, among which Phytophthora root rot, scab, cercospora spot, anthracnose, branch canker and stem-end rot are the most important. Phytophthora root rot is the most important disease of avocado. The pathogen attacks the fine feeder roots of avocado plants and induces multiple symptoms, and, if left untreated, can result in the death of trees and high economic losses. Scab and cercospora spot mainly affect fruit quality and cause fruit drop in intense attacks. Anthracnose and stem-end rot cause severe losses under favorable environmental conditions and the absence of preventive control, occurring mainly in postharvest, during storage and transport of the fruits. Branch canker affects the seedling set and reduces the productivity of the orchard, which can even cause the death of trees in severe attacks. The permanent occurrence of diseases in some areas may turn the crop unprofitable, which requires knowledge and adequate management to obtain productivity and high quality fruits. This review cover the main avocado diseases, their symptoms, etiology, epidemiology and management.

Structural, histochemical, and phytochemical characterization of Mikania cordifolia (L. f.) Willd. (Asteraceae) in a coastal dune environment

Coastal dune is a habitat that presents determining and often limiting factors for plant development. Species of Asteraceae, such as Mikania cordifolia, are commonly found in this environment, including occupying frontal dunes, where winds, salinity, and soil represent severe environmental conditions. Asteraceae is recognized for its different secretory structures and for containing species with potential for bioprospecting. Mikania cordifolia is a species with a voluble habit, wide geographic distribution, and records of medicinal use. However, no studies in the literature cover the anatomical, histochemical, and chemical investigation of all vegetative organs of the mentioned species. In this sense, this study evaluated the anatomical organization of the vegetative organs of M. cordifolia, including secretory structures, as well as the chemical composition of the extract of each organ. For this, diaphanization, microtomy, histochemistry, and phytochemistry techniques were used. Our results showed that the vegetative organs have several adaptations to the coastal dunes environmental conditions, among them the presence of four types of secretory structures – secretory canals and cavities, trichomes and hydathodes. Histochemical analyzes indicated sesquiterpene lactones, pectic and phenolic compounds, lipophilic substances, flavonoids, coumarins, starch and tannins. Nuclear magnetic resonance analyzes showed kaurane diterpenes, steroids, fatty acids, phenolic derivatives, and methoxylated substances. Our results contribute to the understanding of the structure and phytochemistry of the genus Mikania, the adaptations of the species to the coastal dune environment, and the occurrence and distribution of secretory structures in the genus, promoting knowledge and justifying the conservation of the coastal dunes flora.

Strength of mortar reinforced with geogrid

The iron in ferrocement is susceptible to corrosion when exposed to severe environmental conditions, use of an alternate non-corrosive mesh type reinforcement is more appropriate and suggested in future construction. In this study, polypropylene geogrids were used as the reinforcement in mortar. Study deals with the strength characteristics of mortar reinforced with geogrid. Biaxial geogrids have high tensile strength in two directions and this property can be beneficially used in mortar and concrete. The mortar specimens containing with and without polypropylene geogrid panels were tested. In-plane tension, in-plane compression and flexure tests were conducted. The effect of number of layers and orientation of geogrid was investigated. A total of 96 specimens were tested in the study. From the experimental results, geogrid reinforcement was found to be useful to enhance the unidirectional tensile strength and flexural strength of the mortar. Variations in the number of layers have a significant effect on tensile strength of composite. While in case of flexural strength, increasing the number of layers beyond a limit has negligible effect. The test results showed that tensile strength and flexural strength of composite is influenced by the orientation of geogrid. The tensile stress and flexure stress values of specimens were compared with theoretical values based on Voigt model. The results were comparable and hence validated.

Pull-out test of carbon-fiber composite cable (CFCC) tendon for an internal anchorage

An internal strengthening system involving the embedding of a post-tensioned prestressing tendon in a wedge-shaped anchorage of an existing concrete member was developed previously. The previous study confirmed the adequate load capacity of the prestressing tendon for the internal strengthening technique. The tendons used in the previous investigation were steel-rigid bar and steel-wire cables. These steel tendons are prone to corrosion under severe environmental conditions, such as bridge deck slabs sprayed with deicers. Carbon fiber composite cables (CFCC) are occasionally employed as tendons in prestressed concrete bridges. This study focused on the non-metallic material and examined the load capacity of CFCC tendon in internal strengthening systems to achieve the feasibility of the technique under corrosive environment. The main concern of the novel strengthening system was the anchoring system of the CFCC in the internal wedge. In general, both ends of the CFCC tendon can be gripped with external fasteners and be provided a tensile force using a hydraulic jack. In an internal prestressing system, a CFCC end must be anchored without any external fastener. It is preferable to simply fix the CFCC in a small wedge anchor made of existing concrete. This study focused on developing a CFCC anchoring method in a wedge-shaped hole and examined the tensile load capacity of the CFCC tendon fixed in the anchorage. The end of the CFCC tendon was reversely twisted to improve the pullout resistance by increasing the diameter of the cable. To examine the load-bearing capacity of the developed CFCC tendon, a mock-up reinforced concrete (RC) block with an internal wedge-shaped anchorage was used. A CFCC tendon equipped with a reverse-twisted tip was inserted into a wedge-shaped hole filled with high-strength grout. A pull-out test of the CFCC tendon was conducted to examine its load-bearing capacity. The test results revealed that the CFCC tendon with a reverse-twisted tip embedded in the anchorage exhibited adequate load-bearing capacity. This study confirmed that the post-tensioned prestressing system using the CFCC tendon is appropriate for strengthening RC members having the thickness of at least 200 mm, such as bridge deck slabs.

Facilitation between plants and the use of facilitating species as an ecological restoration strategy

Ecosystems subject to extreme abiotic factors are privileged places for studies of positive interactions between plants, such as facilitation mechanisms, which, from biotic or abiotic modifications, generate benefits to the environment. Due to the increase in the number of articles on facilitation in recent decades and the indication of the use of facilitating species in recovery and ecological restoration projects, the present study presents a literature review on facilitation between plant-plant and its applicability between the years 2011 and 2020. A total of 64 studies were considered that encompass the facilitation theme, and the text was composed of an introduction and two sections: i) studies on the facilitation mechanism – advances in the last decade and ii) facilitation as a strategy for ecological restoration. This review indicates that the best understanding of facilitation mechanisms occurs from the combination of knowledge at different levels, such as knowledge of species, ecological organization, phylogenetics and environmental conditions. Thus, this approach enables a better understanding of the community dynamics and demonstrates how the use of facilitating species in restoration areas, especially in regions with severe environmental conditions and/or more vulnerable to climate change, has been considered an effective strategy in the ecological restoration process.

Mechanical, thermal and durability performance characterization of novel acrylic solid surface cladding panels in a multidisciplinary test-chain

In line with the international efforts towards a further reduction of energy consumption and global emissions in the construction sector, cladding systems can play a key role thanks to their fundamental contribution to the overall building energy efficiency. In this framework, the paper elaborates on the application of a multidisciplinary approach towards the characterization of novel cladding panels made of an innovative acrylic-based solid surface material. Their performance has been assessed combining different mechanical, thermal and durability tests, showing promising results, for example, in terms of elasticity and resistance to severe environmental conditions, major wind loads or substantial thermal gradients.

The Trees of the Pisa Botanic Garden under Climate Change Scenarios: What Are We Walking into?

Botanical gardens are dynamic systems of high scientific, ecological, cultural, and historical value. They are irreplaceable places to cultivate, manage, study, and preserve tree diversity. One of the ongoing biggest challenges worldwide in managing and preserving trees is climate change, which exposes specimens to more stressful and severe environmental conditions, causing an increase in mortality. In our research, we aimed to assess the future climate change impact on the tree collection of Botanic Garden of Pisa in order to outline the expected consequences about tree cultivation and management. Under the most pessimistic scenario, in 2090 more than 60% of the tree species cultivated in the Botanic Garden of Pisa are expected to fall outside of their climatic niche. Future chances and pitfalls in managing urban green areas, focusing on the botanical garden community, are also explored.

Self-healable and super-stretchable conductive elastomeric nanocomposites for efficient thermal management characteristics and electromagnetic interference shielding

Due to the pressing need to mitigate current electromagnetic wave pollution (connecting to the 5 G era), lightweight, stretchable, thermally, and electrically conductive nanocomposite materials have attracted significant scientific interest. Herein, self-healable carboxylated nitrile butadiene elastomeric (XNBR) based nanocomposites were fabricated via sequential wet cum melt mixing technique utilizing multi-walled carbon nanotubes (MWCNTs). The metal-ligand complexes in the XNBR elastomer chain endow a reversible network that leads to self-healing ability. The higher aspect ratio of MWCNTs assists in constructing interconnected conductive pathways inside the XNBR matrix. The nanocomposite with MWCNTs (15 phr) provided an excellent EMI shielding effectiveness of − 27.4 dB, whereas the nanocomposite exhibited a thermal conductivity of 0.85 W.m−1. K−1. Interestingly, the interconnected networking pathway of MWCNTs in the XNBR matrix prepared a tunable analogical structure providing an absorption-dominant shielding mechanism. Under severe practical and environmental testing conditions, the nanocomposites showed a minute change in electromagnetic effectiveness, demonstrating their good performance for outdoor applications. These ultra-lightweight, self-healable, recyclable MWCNTs/ XNBR EMI shields are promising materials for next-generation super-stretchable and portable smart electronics.

Grapevine bZIP transcription factor bZIP45 regulates VvANN1 and confers drought tolerance in Arabidopsis.

Drought is a severe environmental condition that restricts the vegetative growth and reduces the yield of grapevine (Vitis vinifera L.). However, the mechanisms underlying grapevine response and adaptation to drought stress remain unclear. In the present study, we characterized an ANNEXIN gene, VvANN1, which plays a positive role in the drought stress response. The results indicated that VvANN1 was significantly induced by osmotic stress. Expression of VvANN1 in Arabidopsis thaliana enhanced osmotic and drought tolerance through modulating the level of MDA, H2O2, and O2 ·- at the seedling stage, implying that VvANN1 might be involved in the process of ROS homeostasis under drought or osmotic stress conditions. Moreover, we used yeast one-hybridization and chromatin immunoprecipitation assays to show that VvbZIP45 could regulate VvANN1 expression by directly binding to the promoter region of VvANN1 in response to drought stress. We also generated transgenic Arabidopsis that constitutively expressed the VvbZIP45 gene (35S::VvbZIP45) and further produced VvANN1Pro::GUS/35S::VvbZIP45 Arabidopsis plants via crossing. The genetic analysis results subsequently indicated that VvbZIP45 could enhance GUS expression in vivo under drought stress. Our findings suggest that VvbZIP45 may modulate VvANN1 expression in response to drought stress and reduce the impact of drought on fruit quality and yield.

Space Electric Field Characteristics of Silicone Rubber Insulator Pollution Flashover and Its Application in Flashover Prewarning

Pollution flashover accidents are still happening in areas with severe environmental conditions, and the existing pollution flashover warning methods are still very simple. In this article, the space electric field characteristics of silicone rubber insulators during pollution flashover were revealed, and the application of the space electric field signal (SEFS) for pollution flashover prewarning was proposed for the first time. During the research, artificial pollution tests were conducted to obtain the SEFS waveform, and then its time-frequency characteristic parameters under different pollution flashover stages were extracted and analyzed. Research results indicate that, according to the SEFS amplitude variation, the development of pollution flashover can be divided into three zones: safe zone, dangerous zone, and critical zone. The four characteristic parameters, the rms increase factor, maximum value increase factor, peak factor, and third harmonic factor change obviously during different flashover stages. Combining the SEFS parameters and the pattern recognition algorithm, the recognition of pollution flashover zones is realized, which can be directly used to form the pollution flashover prewarning strategy.

In-Orbit FPGA reprogramming device for small satellites

Development of satellite technologies is a challenging task, which includes design, manufacturing, testing, and in-orbit operation stages. The reliability of each subsystem shall be at the highest level since space has severe environmental conditions and most satellites do not have an opportunity to perform repairment or replacement of their hardware components.In-orbit reprogramming of some devices, such as On-board Computer (OBC), Attitude Control Unit (ACU), and Power Control Unit (PCU) can provide great advantages to a mission by extending the lifetime and performance of a satellite's operation. At the same time, even a small mistake can result in a lot of monetary losses or even failure of a subsystem or the whole project. So, a reprogramming method to be used in space missions shall undergo excessive testing to provide high reliability for updating software in orbit.This paper is devoted to an investigation of available and applicable methods for remote reprogramming of Field-Programmable Gate Array (FPGA) based subsystems.A commercial off-the-shelf (COTS) single board computer (SBC) was used as a standalone subsystem to perform reprogramming of a target device. The SBC was tested extensively and reinforced for ensuring its space-compatibility. Several open-source software-based solutions were considered. Some of them are applicable to a wide range of processor architectures, including ARM. Considered methods could reconfigure an FPGA successfully with some major limitations, which were also described in the paper.Based on the investigation, Xilinx Software Command-line Tool (XSCT) was selected as a reprogramming method for ACU of the latest satellite of iQPS, QPS-SAR-2 (“IZANAMI”).

Effect of Na2SiO3 concentration on corrosion resistance and wear resistance of MAO ceramic film on the Al‐Mg‐Sc alloy

AbstractAlthough Al‐Mg‐Sc alloy was widely applied to aviation aerospace field, they were vulnerable to local corrosion and wear in the process of long‐term service in severe environmental conditions. In this paper, micro‐arc oxidation (MAO) ceramic films on Al‐Mg‐Sc alloy substrate were prepared in electrolyte solutions with different Na2SiO3 concentrations, and the corrosion resistance and wear resistance of the MAO samples were studied. The experimental results of potentiodynamic polarization (PDS) and long‐term immersion tests indicated that the MAO ceramic film prepared in 10 g/L Na2SiO3 electrolyte solution had the best corrosion resistance, as manifested by no obvious cracks, serious collapse and corrosion products on the sample surface and no deep cracks and corrosion paths in the cross‐sectional area. The increase of Na2SiO3 concentration in electrolyte solution also improved the wear resistance of MAO ceramic film, as manifested by low wear depth (10 μm)and width (1 mm) of the MAO ceramic film prepared in 10 g/L Na2SiO3 electrolyte solution against GCr15 steel ball. Studies in mechanisms suggested that as the Na2SiO3 concentration in the electrolyte increased, the MAO ceramic film became denser, which could prevent the penetration of corrosive medium, promote the generation of the anti‐wear layer with SiO2 as the main component to enhance the wear resistance. MAO ceramic film formed in Na2SiO3 electrolyte solution provided good protective performance for Al‐Mg‐Sc alloy in the corrosion and wear conditions, which had a broader application prospect.

Living on the edge – An overview of invertebrates from groundwater habitats prone to extreme environmental conditions

Groundwater ecosystems from cold polar and circumpolar regions, hot springs, as well as those developed in salt, gypsum or in volcanic rocks are one of the environments considered to exhibit extreme environmental conditions such as low (below 0°C) or high (over 45°C) temperatures, hypersaline waters, or with elevated content of toxic gases like hydrogen sulfide or methane. They represent the “unseen ecosystem beneath our feet” and are inhabited by a large diversity of organisms, persisting and flourishing under severe environmental conditions that are usually hostile to the majority of organisms. These types of groundwater ecosystems are remarkable “evolutionary hotspots” that witnessed the adaptive radiation of morphologically and ecologically diverse species, whereas the organisms living here are good models to understand the evolutionary processes and historical factors involved in speciation and adaptation to severe environmental conditions. Here, we provide an overview of the groundwater invertebrates living in continental groundwater habitats prone to extreme environmental conditions in one or more physico-chemical parameters. Invertebrates are represented by a wide variety of taxonomic groups, however dominated by crustaceans that show specific adaptations mostly metabolic, physiologic, and behavioral. Symbiotic associations among bacteria and invertebrates are also discussed enlightening this biological interaction as a potential adaptation of different groundwater invertebrates to cope with severe environmental conditions. Given the high pressures that anthropogenic activities pose on groundwater habitats worldwide, we predict that several of these highly specialized organisms will be prone to extinction in the near future. Finally, we highlight the knowledge gaps and future research approaches in these particular groundwater ecosystems by using integrative-omic studies besides the molecular approach to shed light on genetic variation and phenotypic plasticity at species and populational levels.GRAPHICAL ABSTRACT