Editorial: Recent advances and perspectives on the gastrointestinal microbiota of small ruminants.

Abstract

Recent research on the gastrointestinal (GI) microbiota of small ruminants such as goats and sheep have provided fascinating insights into their microbial ecology and its impact on health and productivity. Some key advances and perspectives in this field relate to microbial diversity and composition, revealing a diverse array of microbial species inhabiting the GI tract of small ruminants. Members of these microbiomes include bacteria, fungi, protozoa, and archaea, each playing unique roles in the nutrient digestion, immune modulation, and overall gut health. It has been demonstrated that the functional capabilities of GI microbiota, include the fermentation of dietary substrates, synthesis of vitamins, and metabolite production (e.g., short-chain fatty acids). These metabolites influence host physiology, including energy metabolism and immune function.