In a groundbreaking study that could reshape biosecurity and productivity practices in poultry farming, researchers from the University of Dhaka, Gazipur Agricultural University, and Jashore University of Science and Technology have unveiled deep insights into the microbial ecosystems present in poultry environments across Bangladesh.
By sequencing over 2,700 microbial taxa (OTUs) using advanced 16S rRNA gene amplicon sequencing techniques, the study examined samples from cloacal swabs, droppings, feed, hand swabs, soil, and water across several districts.
Key Findings:
- Droppings = Diversity Hotspots: The highest microbial richness was found in poultry droppings (726 OTUs in Noakhali), whereas feed showed the lowest diversity (211 OTUs). This suggests droppings may serve as a rich indicator of flock health or potential risk.
- Feed and Water Safety Alert: Pathogenic bacteria such as Acinetobacter, Shigella, and Enterobacter were prevalent—especially in cloacal and hand swabs—indicating possible contamination points that could affect both poultry and farm staff.
- Zoonotic Risk on the Radar: Enterobacter was alarmingly dominant in hand swabs (26.62%), signaling hygiene gaps that could lead to cross-species transmission.
- Good Bugs Do Exist: Not all microbes were harmful. Lactobacillus (36.89% in feed) and Enterococcus (10.78% in droppings) were among the beneficial bacteria found, supporting gut health and nutrient absorption.
- AMR Red Flags: Genes linked to antibiotic resistance—such as multidrug efflux pumps and 23S rRNA-methyltransferase—were widespread, particularly in samples where harmful pathogens were dominant.
- What This Means: Sample origin accounted for over 51% of the differences in microbial structure (p < 0.001), making it clear that water, feed, and handling practices significantly shape farm microbiomes.
This research underlines the need for better farm hygiene, targeted probiotics, and regular microbial monitoring in poultry operations to enhance health and productivity while minimizing antimicrobial resistance risks.
Eggora Takeaway: Healthy birds start with a healthy environment. Know your microbes. Protect your flock.
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