The microbiomes of wildlife and chemical pollution: Status, knowledge gaps and challenges

R. D. Handy*, N. J. Clark, L. P. Hutt, R. Bescós

*Corresponding author for this work

Research output: Contribution to journalReview articlepeer-review

19 Downloads (Pure)

Abstract

The effect of chemical pollution on the microbiomes of wildlife has been given little attention. A new concept is emerging where microbiomes are vital to host animal or plant health, and for ecosystems. Data are mainly on mammals, birds, and fish. Changing environmental conditions (e.g., salinity, pH, season) and exposure to chemicals alter the composition of gill, gut and skin microbiomes. Gut microbiomes are also modulated by diet, and exposure to chemicals including metals, nanomaterials, fungicides or microplastics. However, a change in the microbiome does not necessarily infer adverse effects on the host, with some evidence of co-adaptation. Environmental risk assessment for biocides and new nanomaterials should be revisited in context with microbiome-host interactions to better protect wildlife and ecosystems.

Original languageEnglish
Article number100428
JournalCurrent Opinion in Toxicology
Volume36
Issue number0
Early online date4 Sept 2023
DOIs
Publication statusPublished - Dec 2023

ASJC Scopus subject areas

  • Toxicology

Keywords

  • Animal health
  • Biocides
  • Ecotoxicology
  • Gut flora
  • Nanomaterials
  • Nutrition
  • Plants

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