The microbiota in the embryo and larval gut of clearhead icefish (Protosalanx chinensis)

The digestive system of clearhead icefish (Protosalanx chinensis) has the characteristics of a short and straight gut, no stomach, and a simple structure. Previous studies have shown that although the early development of clearhead icefish occurs in winter, it can eat large copepods similar to adults after only 10 days of growth. In this process, in addition to the digestive function of the host itself, the auxiliary role of gut microbiota in the host's digestion cannot be ignored.