Different trematode parasites in the same snail host: Species-specific or shared microbiota?

Area of Science:

• Evolutionary ecology
• Microbiome research
• Parasitology

Background:

• The concept of macroorganism-associated microbes evolving as a unit is debated due to transmission variability.
• High microbiome variability exists among individuals of the same species.
• Understanding parasite-specific microbial communities is crucial for evolutionary insights.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate the distinctiveness of microbiota in four trematode species parasitizing the same snail host population.
• To test predictions regarding microbial composition similarity based on trematode phylogeny.
• To examine the influence of co-infection on trematode-associated microbial communities.

Main Methods:

• Comparative analysis of alpha and beta diversity in trematode microbiota.
• Differential abundance testing to identify unique microbial taxa.
• Assessment of microbial community structure in relation to trematode phylogenetic distance and co-infection status.

Main Results:

• Significant differences in microbial diversity and composition were found among the four trematode species.
• No correlation was observed between trematode phylogenetic relatedness and microbiota similarity.
• Indicator bacterial taxa were identified for each trematode species, and evidence of one-sided microbial exchange was observed in co-infecting trematodes.

Conclusions:

• Species-specific processes, rather than phylogenetic relatedness alone, are key drivers of microbial community assembly in trematodes.
• Natural selection and vertical transmission likely maintain distinct microbial communities.
• One trematode species exhibited a more stable and diverse microbiome, suggesting stronger selective pressures.