Microbiomes (IMAGE) U.S. National Science Foundation Caption Microbiomes play critical roles in natural systems, from coral reefs to human bodies. The coral Diploastrea heliopora, whose dome-shaped colonies can reach sizes of up to 5 meters across, were the subject of an NSF-supported microbiome study led by Pennsylvania State University. Credit Ryan McMinds, Oregon State University Usage Restrictions None License Licensed content Disclaimer: AAAS and EurekAlert! are not responsible for the accuracy of news releases posted to EurekAlert! by contributing institutions or for the use of any information through the EurekAlert system.