I recently had the opportunity to capture some beautiful photographs for Micropia, including this striking image showcasing the microbiome—a fascinating mix of fungi, yeast, and bacteria.

Understanding Gorilla Gut Microbiomes

Accompanying the photo is an engaging article about a study conducted by Micropia professor Remco Kort. This research investigates the differences in gut microbiome composition between wild gorillas and those living in ARTIS Zoo. You can read the full article here.

As a former employee at Micropia, I’ve always been intrigued by the variations in microbiomes between wild animals and those in captivity. One question that often arises is whether zoo animals would benefit from specific probiotics tailored to their species. Unlike their wild counterparts, zoo animals generally inhabit smaller and less diverse environments, which can result in a less diverse microbiome. This reduced diversity is linked to various health issues.

◇Wild gorillas tend to have a much more diverse gut microbiome compared to those in captivity
◇ The gorilla’s microbiome adapts to their diet
◇ The microbiome of wild gorillas fluctuates with the seasons

The Importance of Microbiome Research

Addressing this issue requires a deeper understanding of the animals’ environments, diets, and microbiomes. The more we learn about these factors, the better equipped we are to support the health of zoo animals.

It’s encouraging to see that research in this fascinating area is gaining momentum. The implications for animal health and welfare are significant, and I look forward to keeping an eye on the developments in this field!