Vibrio spp.: a potential critical pathogen for mammals with implications beyond marine aquaculture.

ABSTRACT:

Background

Species-specific or health status specific microbiome composition of cetaceans is still poorly classified due to the limited samples. Despite a partial identification of the gut microbiota of melon-headed whales (Peponocephala electra), comparative analyses across anatomical systems are lacking. This study provides the first comprehensive analysis of the microbial communities habiting nine body sites - oral cavity, esophagus, foregut, midgut, hindgut, blowhole, and skin wounds (left anterior, dorsal fin, tail) - in a stranded melon-headed whale.

Results

By 16 S rRNA gene sequencing, a decrease in microbial richness was observed from the oral cavity to the hindgut, accompanied by compositional shifts from Fusobacterium-dominated oral/esophageal niches to Vibrio-enr

SUBMITTER: Li C 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC12492875 | biostudies-literature | 2025 Oct

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature