16S rRNA Gene-Based Oxford Nanopore Sequencing of Milk Samples from Buffaloes with Subclinical Mastitis and Healthy Buffaloes
Subclinical mastitis is a major but often overlooked challenge in dairy production because affected animals may show no obvious signs of illness, while milk quality and production can gradually decline. This study will investigate the bacterial communities present in milk from healthy buffaloes and buffaloes affected by subclinical mastitis in Chattogram, Bangladesh, using advanced 16S rRNA gene sequencing with Oxford Nanopore technology. This approach will provide a detailed understanding of the microorganisms associated with healthy and mastitis-affected milk and may help identify bacterial patterns linked to subclinical infections. The findings will provide valuable baseline information on buffalo milk microbiota in the Chattogram region and may contribute to improved detection, monitoring, and management of subclinical mastitis. At the national level, the study could support efforts to improve milk production, animal health, milk quality, and dairy-farm productivity in Bangladesh.