Bird Microbiome | dochertylab

Microbial Role in Avian Olfaction

Most mammals use odor production and detection as a form of communication. This type of communication is more rare in birds, but is particularly important to highly olfactory "tube nosed" birds (Procellariiformes). It is hypothesized that the genetics of individual birds can play a role in the types of odors that they produce, resulting in birds choosing mates who have different genotypes from their own. Thus, genetic diversity is maintained in these populations. However, how this process occurs is currently unknown. It is thought that individualized microbial communities may play a significant role in producing unique odor profiles. We collaborated with Dr. Gabrielle Nevitt at UC-Davis to investigate the relationship between the microbiota, genetics and odor profiles of Leach's storm petrels. The colony of birds we examined is migratory, but nests on Bon Portage Island off the coast of Nova Scotia, CN during the summer.

Microbiomes of Michigan Birds

In the past decade, an explosion of research has explored the diversity of the human microbiome. However, few studies have thoroughly explored microbial communities associated with other animals. Lessons learned from human-based studies show that microbial communities associated with the healthy human gut and skin can vary across populations, races and familial status. Human microbiomes influence (and are influenced by) the microbiomes of their cities, homes, pets, partners and children. But do these trends hold true for other species? We collaborated on a project led by WMU Biologists Dr. Maarten Vonhof and Dr. Sharon Gill to explore gut and skin microbial communities associated with wild Michigan bird species. In particular, we examined whether species, life-history and habitat influence microbiome composition.