Social bonds shape the microbiome of the critically endangered indri lemur

An international study co-led by MELIS-UPF has mapped the gut microbiome of the indri (Indri indri), a critically endangered lemur species, discovering 48 previously unknown bacterial species. This research reveals that these specialized microbiomes are not merely a product of diet or environment, but are largely established through social transmission between members of the same group. By demonstrating how social architecture directly dictates microbial diversity, this breakthrough underscores the critical need to preserve intact social structures in conservation strategies to safeguard the health and survival of this highly threatened primate.

Reference:
Labisa-Morais F, Valente D, Blanco-Míguez A, Garcia-Valiente A, Andriamaniraka H, Armanini F, Asnicar F, De Gregorio C, Golzato D, Manara S, Modesto M, Piperni E, Punčochář M, Scarafile D, Torti V, Borruso L, Mattarelli P, Giacoma C, Sandri C, Spiezio C, Segata N, Valles-Colomer M (2025). Bacterial transmission within social groups shapes the underexplored gut microbiome in the lemur Indri indri. The ISME Journal. DOI: 10.1093/ismejo/wrae023