Differences in the gut microbiota of the black-faced spoonbill (<i>Platalea minor</i>) across different regions in China.

ABSTRACT: The black-faced spoonbill (Platalea minor) is a critically endangered, first-class protected bird species in China, and its gut microbiota is thought to play a crucial role in the bird's ecological adaptability. However, regional variations in the gut microbiota of this species remain poorly understood. We aimed to investigate how the gut microbiota of P. minor differs across distinct regions in China to identify key factors influencing its composition and function. Fecal samples from black-faced spoonbills were collected in four regions of China (Shenzhen, Dongfang, Danzhou, and Xinying). We performed high-throughput 16S rRNA gene sequencing and bioinformatics analyses to characterize the diversity and abundance of gut microbiota at various taxonomic levels (phylum and famil

SUBMITTER: Yang P 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC12178576 | biostudies-literature | 2025

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature