Gut microbiome diversity across different Apis species found in peninsular Malaysia

The gastrointestinal tract of an animal is home to complex microbial communities that are important for the well-being of their hosts. This research explored the gut microbiome of different honeybee species found in peninsular Malaysia. While these bees share some microbes, each species also houses unique bacteria influenced by their behaviour and environment. Interestingly, the giant bee (Apis dorsata) harbours the most diverse and densely populated gut microbes compared to other honeybee species. My research advances our understanding of host-microbe interactions in closely related host species and lays the foundation for future exploration of these microbes in honeybees’ health.