Gut microbial composition differs among FUNAAB Alpha broiler chicken genotypes raised in a tropical environment

Area of Science:

• Poultry Science
• Microbiology
• Genetics

Background:

• The gut microbiota is vital for chicken health, performance, and disease resistance.
• Variations in gut bacteria can be influenced by chicken genotype.
• FUNAAB Alpha chickens are a notable breed for poultry research.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate the gut bacterial composition and diversity in three FUNAAB Alpha chicken genotypes.
• To identify genotype-specific differences in the gut microbiota.
• To establish a baseline for future studies on gut microbiota modification for enhanced poultry production.

Main Methods:

• 16S rRNA sequencing and metagenomics analysis were employed.
• The study focused on the caecal microbiota of Naked neck, Frizzle, and Normal feather genotypes.
• Operational taxonomic units (OTUs) were identified and quantified.

Main Results:

• Three dominant bacterial phyla were identified: Bacteroidetes, Actinobacteria, and Firmicutes.
• Significant variations in gut microbiota composition and quantity were observed across the three genotypes.
• Normal feather chickens showed a higher number of OTUs compared to Naked neck and Frizzle genotypes.

Conclusions:

• Chicken genotype significantly influences gut microbiota structure and diversity.
• Targeted manipulation of gut microbiota could enhance FUNAAB Alpha chicken health, performance, and disease resistance.
• Further research into microbiota composition modification is recommended to control zoonotic pathogens.