Gut microbiome development in African elephants (Loxodonta africana): Impact of age and rearing strategies
This study investigates the impact of age and rearing strategies on gut microbiome development in African elephants (Loxodonta africana). Using 16S rRNA sequencing, we analyzed microbial diversity and functional profiles in maternally reared and artificially reared calves, as well as healthy adults. Our findings highlight the importance of maternal rearing in establishing a resilient microbiome and suggest that artificial rearing disrupts microbial succession, leading to dysbiosis and health risks. This research provides critical insights for elephant conservation and captive management.