Gut Microbiota Composition of Indigenous Pigs from North Sulawesi Revealed by 16S rRNA Metagenomics

Indigenous pigs constitute a significant genetic resource for food security and cultural legacy; nevertheless, understanding of their gut microbiome diversity is still inadequate.This study sought to define and analyze the gut microbial makeup of indigenous pigs from several regions of North Sulawesi and to assess its possible consequences for health, adaption, and productivity.A 16S rRNA metagenomic methodology was utilized to characterize gut microbial communities in three populations: Minahasa, Kepulauan, and Bolaang Mongondow.Relative abundance data were examined at the phylum, class, family, and genus levels and represented through histograms, ternary plots, and UPGMA clustering utilizing both weighted and unweighted UniFrac distances.The findings indicated notable disparities in microbial composition across populations, with Gammaproteobacteria, Bacilli, and Clostridia prevailing at the class level, and families including Enterobacteriaceae, Ruminococcaceae, and Lachnospiraceae linked to essential metabolic functions, encompassing carbohydrate fermentation and polysaccharide degradation.UPGMA analysis grouped samples based on their geographical origin, indicating the impact of environmental and nutritional factors on microbial community composition.This study presents the inaugural comprehensive map of gut microbiota composition in indigenous pigs from North Sulawesi, emphasizing its ecological and adaptive importance.Subsequent study ought to integrate functional metagenomics with dietary intervention trials utilizing local feed supplies to maximize gut health and improve the productivity of indigenous pig populations.