Topic: Gastrointestinal Microbiota of Ruminants: Diversity, Function, and Health

The gastrointestinal microbiota of ruminants plays a vital role in their digestion, nutrient absorption, immune regulation, and overall health. With advances in sequencing technologies and microbial ecology, our understanding of the diversity, structure, and function of these complex microbial communities has greatly expanded. This special issue aims to showcase recent progress in the study of ruminant gut microbiota, exploring their roles in host physiology, health management, disease prevention, and productivity improvement. We welcome original article, reviews, and short communications that cover topics such as microbial diversity and dynamics, host-microbe interactions, microbiome-driven innovations in animal husbandry, and the implications of microbiota modulation for sustainable livestock production.

Ruminant microbiota, gastrointestinal tract, microbial diversity, host–microbe interactions, rumen fermentation, gut health, nutrient absorption, microbiome modulation