Comparison of Gut Microbial Ecology of Captive and Wild Water Deer for Understanding Mammalian Ecology and Conservation
Year: 2025
Type: article
Abstract: The water deer, although an internationally endangered species, is designated as a nuisance wild animal in South Korea and occupies a unique ecological niche. Studying the gut microbiome of this species is crucial for understanding its ecology. We amplified 16S rRNA DNA and compared the gut microbiomes of wild water deer from three regions with those of captive water deer from one region. Our results showed that the gut microbiome diversity of water deer did not differ significantly across regions in the wild but decreased significantly when raised in captivity. The similar microbiomes of water deer living in different regions are believed to be due to dietary diversity rather than dietary homogeneity. Furthermore, the monotony of the food supply appears to lead to significant variation in captive environments. From a conservation biology and biorestoration perspective, we suggest the importance of conserving the gut environments of animals conserved and restored outside their native habitats.
Source: Diversity
DOI: 10.3390/d17110742
Authors: Chang-Eon Park, Hee-Cheon Park
Institution: Ministry of Environment
Language: English
Topic: Gut microbiota and health
Subfield: Molecular Biology
Domain: Life Sciences
SDG: Life on land
Open Access status: gold
Estimated APC paid: $2,534
OpenAlex ID: W4415457231