Host genetic selection for cold tolerance shapes microbiome composition and modulates its response to temperature

Area of Science:

• Microbiology
• Genetics
• Environmental Science

Background:

• The hologenome concept views hosts and their associated microbes as a single unit of selection.
• Poikilothermic organisms, unable to regulate body temperature, may rely on their microbiome for thermal acclimation.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate the link between host genetics, thermal tolerance, and gut microbiome composition in tilapia.
• To test the hologenome concept in the context of environmental adaptation.

Main Methods:

• A transgenerational selective breeding scheme was employed to enhance cold tolerance in tropical tilapia.
• The gut microbiome composition and host transcriptomic responses were analyzed in selected fish lines.
• Microbiome resilience to cold temperature stress was assessed.

Main Results:

• Host genetic selection for thermal tolerance significantly altered gut microbiome composition.
• Cold-resistant tilapia exhibited microbiomes with enhanced resilience to cold exposure.
• Host selection influenced the microbiome's response to environmental temperature changes.

Conclusions:

• Host genetics play a crucial role in shaping the gut microbiome's adaptive capacity to thermal stress.
• Findings support the hologenome concept, demonstrating co-evolutionary adaptation between host and microbiome.
• The microbiome is an integral component of host adaptation to environmental challenges.