Changes to the reproductive microbiome of the brood pouch during male pregnancy in seahorses (Hippocampus abdominalis).

ABSTRACT:

In brief

Reproductive microbiomes contribute to the successful embryogenesis of offspring but are poorly studied in non-mammalian species that exhibit pregnancy. This study characterises the male pregnant seahorse brood pouch microbiome and identifies potential microbial maternal contributions to the pouch, providing insights into the sources and adaptive value of the embryonic microbial environment.

Abstract

Seahorses demonstrate an unusual reproductive strategy, in which males incubate embryos inside a complex 'brood pouch' until parturition, analogous to mammalian viviparity. In many species, a 'normal' reproductive microbiome ensures successful embryogenesis and enables parents (usually mothers) to provide their offspring with their initial microbiome. In male-pregnant s

SUBMITTER: Wang J 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC11906128 | biostudies-literature | 2025 Apr

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature