Selected bacteria in sheep stool depending on breed and physiology state

Area of Science:

• Ruminant microbiology
• Animal science
• Gut microbiome research

Background:

• Ruminant gut microbial communities are influenced by diet, environment, breed, and physiological status.
• Understanding these influences is crucial for animal health and productivity.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate the impact of sheep breed and physiological period on fecal microbial phyla and families.
• To identify specific bacterial changes associated with different breeds and reproductive stages in ewes.

Main Methods:

• Quantitative PCR (qPCR) was used to analyze bacterial levels.
• Fecal samples were collected from three Polish sheep breeds (Polish Lowland Sheep (PON), Świniarka Sheep (SW), and synthetic line BCP) during various physiological periods (conception, early pregnancy, lambing, end of lactation).

Main Results:

• Both sheep breed (p=0.038) and physiological period (p<0.05, p<0.01) significantly affected the levels of analyzed bacteria (Firmicutes, Bacteroidetes, Actinobacteria, Proteobacteria, Clostridiaceae, Lactobacillaceae).
• The BCP synthetic line showed distinct microbial profiles compared to PON and SW breeds, except for Actinobacteria.
• PON and SW breeds differed in Proteobacteria and Clostridiaceae levels.
• Early pregnancy and lambing stages exhibited the highest microbial diversity.

Conclusions:

• Sheep breed and physiological stage are key determinants of fecal microbial composition.
• Reproductive phases, particularly early pregnancy and lambing, are associated with increased gut microbial diversity in ewes.
• Breed-specific microbial differences warrant further investigation for targeted management strategies.