Keywords
cosmopolitan yeasts
resilient microorganisms
extreme environments
How to Cite
Abstract
Yeasts are unicellular fungi commonly used in the production of bread, beer, and wine. However, they also fulfill crucial ecological roles in nature. In ecosystems, these microorganisms contribute to the decomposition of organic matter and nutrient recycling. Moreover, their remarkable adaptive capacity, shaped by evolutionary processes, enables them to survive in virtually any habitat on Earth, including extreme environments such as polar regions, sun-exposed deserts, and even outer space. This review article explores some of the strategies that enable yeasts to thrive under harsh conditions, such as cold, ultraviolet radiation, and other environmental stressors. An analysis of their versatility underscores their impact on the circular economy and their broader ecological significance.
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