The gut microbiome as an indicator of habitat disturbance in a Critically Endangered lemur.

ABSTRACT:

Background

Habitat disturbance affects the biology and health of animals globally. Understanding the factors that contribute to the differential responses of animals to habitat disturbance is critical for conservation. The gut microbiota represents a potential pathway through which host responses to habitat disturbance might be mediated. However, a lack of quantitative environmental data in many gut microbiome (GM) studies of wild animals limits our ability to pinpoint mechanisms through which habitat disturbance affects the GM. Here, we examine the impact of anthropogenic habitat disturbance on the diet and GM of the Critically Endangered black-and-white ruffed lemur (Varecia variegata editorum). We collected fecal samples and behavioral data from Varecia occupying habitats qualit

SUBMITTER: McManus N 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC8680155 | biostudies-literature | 2021 Dec

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature