Quorum sensing and microbial metabolic divergence in alpaca versus cattle rumen

This study explores the rumen microbiome of Huacaya alpacas in comparison with Holstein and Simmental cattle. Using metagenomic and enzymatic approaches, we identified differences in microbial composition, fermentation products, and quorum sensing signals. The findings highlight unique adaptations in alpacas that enhance fiber utilization and metabolic efficiency, offering new insights into ruminant nutrition and microbiome specialization.