This thesis presents a comprehensive metagenomic study of giant viruses and virophages in the central North Sea, highlighting the diversity, composition and distribution of these viral groups. Utilizing sequencing techniques and bioinformatic tools, viral contigs from nine sampling locations were assembled and classified into distinct viral realms. The study reveals a predominance of the Phycodnaviridae family within the Megaviricetes class, which accounted for the majority of identified contigs. Virophages, primarily Yellowstone Lake Virophage 6, are demonstrating their ecological presence despite environmental differences. The research underscores the influence of local environmental conditions on viral community structure, with significant spatial variations observed in viral abundance and diversity. This thesis contributes to the understanding of marine viral ecology by offering the first taxonomic classification of giant viruses and virophages in the North Sea, emphasizing the need for further temporal and spatial studies to elucidate their ecological roles and dynamics. |
