Taxonomic composition of bacteria in pigeon droppings revealed by metagenomic analysis targeting V3-V4 region of 16S rRNA
Year: 2025
Type: article
Abstract: Objective: To investigate the bacterial microbiota in pigeon droppings collected from large food storage facilities in Kannur district of Kerala, India, focusing on the potential public health risks posed by these birds in urban environments using metagenomic analysis targeting V3-V4 region of 16S rRNA. Methods: The study identifies and catalogs bacteria in both dry (PY1) and fresh pigeon droppings (PY2) using 1 g of pooled samples collected from multiple sites utilizing metagenomic analysis through 16S rRNA gene sequencing. Results: The results revealed a diverse microbial composition in both fresh and dry pigeon droppings, with notable genera including Kocuria (12% in PY1 and 2% in PY2), Fusobacterium (48% in PY2), and Streptococcus (22% in PY2), among others. The presence of pathogenic bacteria like Acinetobacter (1% in PY1) and Fusobacterium (48% in PY2) underscored the importance of proper hygiene practices in urban settings to mitigate zoonotic disease transmission. Conclusions: This study underscored the significance of metagenomic analysis targeting the V3-V4 region of 16s rRNA in elucidating microbial diversity. The observed differences between fresh and dry pigeon droppings highlight the influence of environmental factors on bacterial community composition. These findings emphasized the necessity of continous surveillance to enchance hygeine practices and mitigate contamination risks in food storage environments.
Source: One Health Bulletin
Authors: Karakkadan Anisha, Abraham Tajo
Institution: Sir Syed College
Language: English
Topic: Gut microbiota and health
Subfield: Molecular Biology
Domain: Life Sciences
Open Access status: diamond
OpenAlex ID: W4408986969