Work

Seasonal and Regional Dynamics of the Intestinal Microbiota in Schizothorax nukiangensis from the Nujiang River

Year: 2025

Type: article

Abstract: The dynamic alterations in intestinal microbiota can provide insights into the adaptive relationships between these microorganisms and their hosts in response to environmental changes. Schizothorax nukiangensis is widely distributed throughout the Nujiang River and exhibits numerous unique adaptations. In this study, we collected samples of S. nukiangensis across different seasons and regions within the Nujiang River to comprehensively elucidate the diversity and composition of its intestinal microbiota using metagenomic technology. The results indicated that Firmicutes and Proteobacteria predominated at the phylum level, while Priestia, Bacillus, and Aeromonas were the most abundant genera identified. Notably, the relative abundance of these microorganisms varied significantly across different seasons and regions. From autumn through spring and into summer, the predominant microorganisms shifted from Firmicutes to Proteobacteria. Biomarker analysis revealed that Firmicutes (including the class bacilli and the genera Priestia and Bacillus) exhibited a higher relative abundance within the upstream group, where categories related to amino acid metabolism and carbohydrate metabolism were significantly enriched. Conversely, Proteobacteria (including several potential pathogens, such as Saezia, Pantoea, Lelliotia, and Aeromonas genera) showed an increased relative abundance within downstream groups, where disease-related categories exhibited significant enrichment. Our findings significantly enhance our understanding of how S. nukiangensis adapts to its environment, providing valuable data support for the conservation of S. nukiangensis and for ecological security assessment of the Nujiang River.

Source: Animals

DOI: 10.3390/ani15070961