Advances in Microbiome Research for Animal Health

Host-associated microbiomes contribute in many ways to the homeostasis of the metaorganism. The microbiome's contributions range from helping to provide nutrition and aiding growth, development, and behavior to protecting against pathogens and toxic compounds. Here we summarize the current knowledge of the diversity and importance of the microbiome to animals, using representative examples of wild and domesticated species. We demonstrate how the beneficial ecological roles of animal-associated microbiomes can be generally grouped into well-defined main categories and how microbe-based alternative treatments can be applied to mitigate problems for both economic and conservation purposes and to provide crucial knowledge about host-microbiota symbiotic interactions. We suggest a Customized Combination of Microbial-Based Therapies to promote animal health and contribute to the practice of sustainable husbandry. We also discuss the ecological connections and threats associated with animal biodiversity loss, microorganism extinction, and emerging diseases, such as the COVID-19 pandemic.

Automated summary

Host-associated microbiomes play a crucial role in maintaining the homeostasis of the metaorganism by providing nutrition, aiding growth and development, protecting against pathogens, and more. Understanding the diversity and importance of animal microbiomes can lead to the development of microbe-based therapies to promote animal health and sustainable husbandry practices. Threats associated with animal biodiversity loss, microorganism extinction, and emerging diseases like the COVID-19 pandemic highlight the need for further research and conservation efforts in this area.