Microbial transmission among giant panda, sympatric wildlife, and domesticated animals

The gut microbiome of wild animals is subject to complex influences, including cross-species transmission that risks host and environmental health. This study used 16S rRNA sequencing to profile microbial communities in giant pandas (GPs), sympatric wildlife, domesticated animals, and environmental samples from panda habitats. Results revealed significant differences in microbial community structure at both phylum and genus levels. Source Tracker analysis indicated that red pandas (RPs) serve as the primary potential microbial source for GPs (72.17%). However, the two species exhibited distinct patterns in acquiring microbes from other groups: GPs were more susceptible to potential transmission by aerobic and facultative anaerobic bacteria compared to RPs. Water and soil showed distinct microbial assembly patterns as sinks, reflecting their divergent physicochemical properties. These findings demonstrate that dietary specialization and environmental exposure collectively shape the gut microbiome, offering insights for managing microbial interactions and habitats.