4 Animals That Don’t Have Resident Gut Microbiomes

The video explores the role of microbiomes in various animals, highlighting how bats, caterpillars, ants, and stick insects have unique relationships with gut microbes. Bats and birds have fast digestion due to flight, reducing reliance on microbes. Caterpillars have basic stomachs that deter microbes, while ants show diverse microbial partnerships. Stick insects have adapted genetically to digest plant material without microbial help. The video emphasizes caution in assuming microbial presence, as future technology may reveal more about these relationships.

Why do bats have a faster digestion process compared to other mammals?

• To support diverse diets

• To increase nutrient absorption

• To avoid microbial infections

• To conserve energy during flight

What is a common feature of the digestive systems of both bats and birds?

• They both have multiple stomachs

• They both rely on external microbes for digestion

• They both have a resident gut microbiome

• They both have fast digestion to aid in flight

What is the primary reason caterpillars do not rely on gut microbes?

• Their stomach environment is highly alkaline

• They have a highly acidic stomach

• They have a short digestive tract

• Their diet is rich in nutrients

What is a significant finding about caterpillars' digestion when treated with antibiotics?

• They develop a new set of gut microbes

• Their digestion remains unaffected or improves

• They become more susceptible to infections

• Their digestion becomes less efficient

How do some ants benefit from not having a consistent microbial partnership?

• They can reproduce faster

• They are less prone to diseases

• They have a more varied diet

• They can survive in a wider range of temperatures

What is a potential risk for animals that rely on gut microbes?

• Limited habitat range

• Higher risk of infections

• Increased energy expenditure

• Reduced nutrient absorption

What unique adaptation allows stick insects to digest plant material without microbes?

• They have a symbiotic relationship with fungi

• They produce their own digestive microbes

• They acquired genes through horizontal gene transfer

• They have a specialized gut structure