ISATAB-MBL-3
Microbial community and potential pathogen shifts along an ornamental fish supply chain
There is broad interest in disease spread through the pet trade, but empirical research on hosts and pathogens in transit along actual trade routes is notably absent. Using next-generation DNA sequencing, and partnering with the ornamental fish industry, we tracked shifts in microbial community and potential pathogen structure associated with Sailfin Tang (Zebrasoma desjardinii) along the U.S. leg of an international supply chain. We observed striking changes in microbial diversity and composition of potential pathogens, including increased dominance of vibrios of fishes in transit. Our pilot findings suggest that high investment in fishes early in the supply chain may not matter to their long-term health depending on end destination conditions.       Deposition to NCBI SRA via ISAcreator 1.6 tool (www.isatab.sf.net), compliant with MIMARKS requirements.