Metatranscriptomic analysis of the gut virome in Muscovy ducks reveals a novel duck reovirus potentially associated with hepatic and splenic hemorrhage.

ABSTRACT:

Introduction

Ducks rank among the most important sources of animal protein globally, yet hepatic and splenic hemorrhage and necrosis in Muscovy ducks present a critical challenge to the poultry industry. The causes behind such diseases are often multifaceted, involving both established and newly emerging pathogens.

Methods

In this study, we leveraged metatranscriptomic sequencing to profile the intestinal viral communities of healthy and diseased Muscovy ducks from a Guangdong Province farm that experienced a hepatic and splenic hemorrhage in June 2024.

Results

Our findings revealed marked differences in viral community profiles between the two groups, with the diseased cohort exhibiting higher α-diversity. Taxonomic analyses across multiple levels uncovered significa

SUBMITTER: Liu C 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC12588956 | biostudies-literature | 2025

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature