of this superphylum may have been the start of the eukaryotic lineage. While this is one possible explanation, because PVC is not the start of the bacterial tree, the existence of eukaryotic traits and genes is more likely explained through lateral gene transfer, and not a more recent eukaryotic ancestor. Ecology Distribution and abundance Members of the Planctomycetota are found in a diverse range of environments, both geographically and ecologically, and occur in both aquatic and terrestrial habitats. In aquatic environments, they are found in both freshwater and marine systems. Planctomycetota were originally believed to exist exclusively in aquatic environments, but they are now known to be also abundant in soils and hypersaline environments. They are widespread on five continents, including Antarctica and Australia. Fluorescence in situ hybridization was used to detect Planctomycetota in various environments, and Planctomycetota are found in abundance in sphagnum bogs. Some Planctomycetota were found in the digestive systems of marine lifeforms, while others tend to live among eukaryotes. Environmental influences on distribution Planctomycetota account for roughly 11% of prokaryotic communities in marine systems, and their vast distribution demonstrates their ability to inhabit many different environments. They can also adapt to both aerobic and anaerobic conditions. Many factors can affect their distribution, such as humidity, oxygen levels, and pH levels. Planctomycetota diversity and abundance are strongly associated with relative humidity. The effects of oxygen levels demonstrate the energy needs of the individual. Many species of Planctomycetota are chemoheterotrophic, including G. obscuriglobus. Thermostilla marina, a thermophilic anaerobic species occupying hydrothermal vent regions, can use elemental sulfur to generate sulfide and respire with nitrate. Planctomycetota can also inhabit regions with ranges in pH levels from 4.2 to 11.6. Ecological impacts and global carbon cycle Planctomycetota have a significant impact on global biogeochemistry and climate, with their ability to mineralize and break down detritus particles in the water column. Planctomycetota play a considerable role in the global carbon cycle. As both obligate and facultative aerobic chemoheterotrophs, the primary source of carbon used by Planctomycetota is from carbohydrates. Many Planctomycetota have the ability to breakdown extremely complex carbohydrates, making these nutrients available to other organisms. This ability to recycle carbon has been linked to specific C1 metabolism genes observed in many Planctomycetota and are suggested to play a significant role, but this area of research is still poorly understood. Planctomycetota also display many sulfatase enzymes, which are capable of breaking