Final answer:
Metagenomics is the study of collective genomes of multiple species interacting in an environmental niche, using Next Generation Sequencing to identify and characterize organisms without traditional culturing. Contrary to the claim, it often identifies previously unknown microorganisms and has robust resources, such as the DOE-JGI site.
Step-by-step explanation:
Metagenomics can be defined as the study of the collective genomes of multiple species that grow and interact within an environmental niche. This field of study can significantly leverage Next Generation Sequencing technology to identify and characterize organisms that are part of a microbial community. Unlike traditional methods that required culturing microorganisms in isolation, which is often challenging due to resistance to artificial growing conditions, metagenomics can identify microbiologic organisms directly from their natural environment without the need for culturing. This approach not only allows for the identification of new species more rapidly but also provides insights into the effects of environmental factors like pollutants on microbial communities.
It is not true that metagenomics rarely finds previously unknown microorganisms; in fact, it often uncovers species that have not been identified before. Moreover, metagenomics has ample resources available for analysis, including those at powerful facilities like the DOE-JGI site, to support and enhance the abilities of researchers in this field. Therefore, the study of metagenomics is a transformative area of research in microbial genomics with vast applications including environmental monitoring, creation of new biofuels, and understanding the human microbiome and other complex microbial ecosystems.