Captivity Reduces Diversity and Shifts Composition of the Great Bustard (<i>Otis tarda dybowskii</i>) Microbiome.

ABSTRACT: Captivity offers protection for endangered species, but for bustards, captive individuals face a higher risk of disease and exhibit lower reintroduction success rates. Changes in the diversity of host bacterial and fungal microbiota may be a significant factor influencing reintroduction success. The great bustard (Otis tarda) is a globally recognized endangered bird species. Previous research on the gut microbiota of the great bustard has been limited, hindering effective conservation efforts. Therefore, this study utilized high-throughput sequencing of the 16S rRNA and Internal Transcribed Spacer (ITS) genes to compare the gut bacterial and fungal microbiota of great bustards in different environments. The results revealed a significant decline in alpha diversity and notable change

SUBMITTER: Lu Z 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC11718221 | biostudies-literature | 2025 Jan

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature