Turtle egg microbiome modulates fusariosis fungal infection and hatching success

In this study, we used yellow-spotted Amazon river turtle (Podocnemis unifilis) as a model organism to investigate the potential role of the bacteriome and mycobiome of the inner eggshell in fungal pathogen defence and hatching success. Specifically, we sought to determine whether inner-egg bacteriome and mycobiome diversity predict the risk of FSSC prevalence and infection intensity. Furthermore, we investigated whether the diversity and composition of the bacteriome and mycobiome differ between eggs that have undergone arrested development at an early and late embryonic stage compared to eggs that have successfully hatched. We subsequently investigated whether differences in inner egg bacteriome and mycobiome are predictors of hatching success. Finally, we aimed to detect specific bacterial and fungal strains and their interactions that may be linked with FSSC protection/susceptibility and hatching success. Our study uncovers key aspects for future fungal pathogens research and offers valuable insights critical for developing and implementing effective conservation strategies.