What Does Yaravirus Discovery Mean for Evolution?

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Yaravirus, discovered in an artificial lake, contains 90% novel genes, highlighting the vast diversity of life forms. The discussion emphasizes the importance of microbial diversity, noting that a teaspoon of soil can harbor thousands of species, and the human gut microbiota comprises trillions of organisms. Finding novel viruses like Yaravirus contributes significantly to genetic databases and our understanding of biodiversity. The field of biology is still in its early stages, with much to learn about new species. Continued exploration and documentation are crucial for advancing biological knowledge.
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Two anecdotal comments:

A PBS NOVA episode about the diversity of life in a half acre field mentioned that a teaspoon of soil contained thousands of species of protozoans, fungi, bacteria, archaea, and viruses.

The mass of microbiota in your gut is usually taken to be ~1Kg - (2.2lbs), and is made up of a huge variety of organisms and company. Literally trillions of "individuals". So, in a sense, the largest number of cells in an organ could be taken as your friendly local gut flora.

@pinball1970 - finding a novel virus is helpful especially in developing genetic databases.
We are still in the alpha phase of Biology - finding and describing new species.
 
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