Functional Diversity within Gut Microbiomes: Implications for Conserving Biodiversity

Conservation research has historically been conducted at the macro level, focusing on animals and plants their role in wider ecosystem. However, there is a growing appreciation of importance microbial communities conservation. Most microbiome conservation thus far used amplicon sequencing methods to assess taxonomic composition inferred functional capabilities from these data. as manipulation tool becomes more feasible, need understand direct consequences shifts composition. This review outlines latest advances perspective how data can be inform strategies. will also consider some challenges faced when studying microbiomes wild they overcome by careful study design sampling methods. Environmental changes brought about climate change or human actions have potential alter populations. Understanding affect function important for identifying species most threatened disruption microbiome. Preservation even restoration functions powerful biology shift towards characterisation gut diversity an first step.