Experimental selection of honey bee gut microbiome
This study investigates how selective pressures, specifically host lifespan and chronic exposure to the herbicide glyphosate, shape the composition and dynamics of the honey bee (Apis mellifera) gut microbiome and host lifespan across generations. Using an experimental selection framework, microbiomes from bees with distinct lifespans and glyphosate exposure were serially transferred into germ-free hosts to assess microbial responses to selection and stress. The 16S rRNA amplicon sequencing data generated provides insights into microbiome selection, resilience, and potential influence on host traits. This research is relevant for advancing our understanding of the microbiome's role in honey bee health and resilience to environmental stressors.