Bridging Ecology and Microbiomes: Applying Ecological Theories in Host-associated Microbial Ecosystems

Area of Science:

• Microbiome Research
• Community Ecology
• Host-Microbe Interactions

Background:

• Host-associated microbiomes are shaped by both selective and stochastic ecological processes.
• Existing ecological frameworks may not fully capture dynamics during perturbed host states, such as disease.
• Understanding these dynamics is crucial for host health.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review the application of classical ecological theory to host-associated microbiomes.
• To identify challenges in applying these theories to microbiome research.
• To highlight host factors for future consideration in ecological models.

Main Methods:

• Literature review of ecological theories applied to host-associated microbiomes.
• Analysis of studies on microbiome colonization, maintenance, and recovery.
• Discussion of challenges and future directions.

Main Results:

• Ecological principles are increasingly used to study host microbiomes.
• Both deterministic and random processes influence microbiome composition.
• Ecological models need refinement to account for host-specific factors.

Conclusions:

• Classical ecological theory provides a valuable lens for microbiome research.
• Integrating host genotype and immune dynamics is essential for accurate microbiome modeling.
• Improved models can enhance predictions of microbiome stability and host health outcomes.