Hydrological fluctuations govern the decline of microbial carbon pump efficiency by shifting microbial life history strategies and assembly processes in reservoir drawdown zones

Key Points

• Microbial carbon pump efficiency declines due to shifts in microbial life history strategies, affecting ecosystem functions.
• Evaluation showed a 25% reduction in carbon pump efficiency during reservoir drawdown zones over the last five years.
• Assessment of microbial community structures revealed significant shifts due to hydrological fluctuations in water bodies.
• Implications suggest crucial changes in carbon cycling, highlighting the need for ongoing ecological monitoring in aquatic environments.