Analysis of fungal microbiota diversity and potential pathogenic fungi in oral secretions and gut feces of captive giant pandas.

Background: Maintaining good oral and gut health is essential for the wellbeing of animals, and fungi are key components of the oral and gut microbiota. This study aims to explore the diversity and seasonal dynamics of oral and gut fungal communities in captive giant pandas, with a focus on their potential functional roles in health and digestion. Methods: In the study, we collected saliva and fecal samples from 60 captive giant pandas were collected in different seasons, oral and gut fungi were analyzed using internal transcribed spacer (ITS) amplicon sequencing. We used Results: Analyses of Conclusion: The abundance and diversity of fungal communities in the oral cavity and gut of giant pandas exhibit significant seasonal variations. While the oral cavity hosts a higher abundance and diversity of fungi, the species composition of fungal community composition is similar to that of the intestines. The majority of gut fungi are likely derived from the oral cavity or diet, the significant seasonal variation in gut fungal community structure further suggests that long-term resident fungi may not be present in the gut.