Diversity Characterization of the Gut Microbiome in Kazakh Horses using 16s rRNA Sequencing
Kassymbekova S. Strochkov V. Ussenbekov Y. Kalykova A. Kabylbekova D. Bimenova Z. Khizat S.
May-Jun 2025Unique Scientific Publishers
International Journal of Veterinary Science
2025#14Issue 3578 - 586 pp.
The Kazakh horse, an ancient breed native to Central Asia, holds cultural and historical significance in Kazakhstan. This study aimed to assess intestinal microbiota diversity in Kazakh horses, considering factors such as age, breed, and pasture type. The study was conducted in autumn-winter 2023, the research involved 24 horses aged 3-8 years from Pavlodar, Zhetysu, and Mangystau regions, grazing on natural grasslands. The study found that non-dominant bacteria, such as Tenericutes and Proteobacteria, were more abundant in horses from Pavlodar and Zhetysu. At the same time, the Mangystau region had higher levels of anaerobic cellulolytic and proteolytic bacteria. Horses on grazing had a more diverse microbiome than those on a high-protein diet. A link between lifestyle and microbiome adaptation was suggested, with 24-hour grazing promoting a richer microbiome. The microbiota in different regions revealed significant differences, with the Mangystau and Zhetysu regions showing highly diverse microbial communities. Horses from these areas even hosted unique bacteria associated with marine environments, likely due to the influence of seawater. In contrast, Pavlodar horses showed lower species diversity. The study highlights the importance of preserving the genetic traits of local horse breeds and suggests that gut microbiota plays a role in the growth and development of horses. Further research will focus on the resistome, metabolome, and the search for pharmabiotics to support the conservation and productivity of these breeds.
16S rRNA sequencing , Equine , Fecal microbiota , Intestinal microorganisms , Microbial community diversity
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Kazakh National Agrarian Research University, 8 Abai str, Almaty, 050010, Kazakhstan
Al-Farabi Kazakh National University, 71 al-Farabi ave, Almaty, 050040, Kazakhstan
Kazakh National Agrarian Research University
Al-Farabi Kazakh National University
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