INFLUENCE OF GASTROINTESTINAL MICROBIOME ON RUMINANT PHENOTYPES: A REVIEW

Abstract

The microbiome, encompassing the diverse microbial communities in the gastrointestinal tract, plays a critical role in shaping the phenotypic characteristics of ruminants, influencing growth, metabolism, immunity, and overall health. Ruminants rely heavily on their microbiota for the efficient digestion of complex plant materials, and this symbiotic relationship has profound effects on traits such as feed conversion efficiency, milk production, and disease resistance. Recent research has highlighted the complex interactions between host genetics, microbial composition, and environmental factors in shaping ruminant phenotypes. Advances in metagenomics and microbiome profiling techniques have provided insights into the microbial taxa involved in key physiological processes. This review explores the mechanisms by which the gut microbiota influences animal performance, including its impact on digestive efficiency, metabolism, methane emission and immune function and disease susceptibility. Despite the promising advances in microbiome research, challenges remain in understanding the causal relationships between microbial communities and phenotypic outcomes. Future studies on integrating microbiome data with host genetics will provide actionable insights for enhancing ruminant health and productivity.