Virtual Special Issue on Ecological Function of Avian Gut Microbiome

Introduction

The biological functions of the avian gut microbiome are being unveiled through various microbiomic methods. In birds, the gut microbiome plays a crucial role in their physiological conditions, nutritional metabolism, vitamin synthesis, and immune system, consequently influencing individual fitness. Several ecological factors, such as food composition, ambient temperature, migration, predation, and social pressure, influence the composition of avian gut microbiomes. Moreover, there is a bidirectional transfer of microbiomes between avian gut and the environment through defecation and feeding. Investigating the ecological functions of avian gut microbiomes and the interplay between avian and environmental microbiomes holds importance in understanding the mechanisms of avian ecological adaptation.

To that end, we propose a virtual special issue entitled "Ecological Functions of the Avian Gut Microbiome." We invite research articles and reviews that offer innovative ideas and insights into this area of study.

Topics covered

The coverage includes, but is not limited to, the following research topics:

• Ecological functions of avian gut microbiomes
• The interplay between avian gut microbiomes and environmental microbiomes
• The interplay between avian gut microbiomes and physiology

Important deadlines

• Submission opens: 1 July 2023
• Submission deadline: 30 June 2024
• Final decision: Average 6 weeks after submission

Submission instructions

Please read the Guide for Authors before submitting. All submissions should be made via the online editorial system.

Guest editors