Over 1,700 frozen viruses discovered in a Tibetan glacier; are they harmful to humans?

These ancient viruses, dating back as far as 41,000 years, provide valuable insights into past ecosystems and climate changes. (Image: Canva)

In the icy heights of the Himalayas, yaks transport ancient ice cores, offering a glimpse into Earth's distant past. A recent study on one such core from the Guliya Glacier on the Tibetan Plateau has unveiled 1,705 preserved viral genomes. These ancient viruses, dating back as far as 41,000 years, provide valuable insights into past ecosystems and climate changes.

How Climate Changes Shaped Viral Communities
Published in Nature Geoscience, the study reveals that ancient viruses, which targeted bacteria and archaea, were influenced by climate variations. The viral community within the glacier’s ice showed significant changes with climate shifts: colder periods led to a more stable viral environment, while warmer times saw increased diversity. The peak of viral diversity was observed around 11,500 years ago, coinciding with a major climatic shift.

The Importance of Preserving Frozen Records
This research highlights the role of ancient viruses in their ecosystems and the impact of climate on microbial life. The discovery of unique viruses in the Guliya Glacier emphasizes the glacier’s role as a repository of distinct microbial history. As glaciers melt and these archives are at risk of being lost, ongoing research is crucial. Scientists aim to understand how current climate changes might affect microbial communities and ecosystems globally, making the preservation of these icy records vital for future studies.