Deciphering taxonomic and functional patterns of microbial communities associated with the tiger tail seahorse (Hippocampus comes)

Abstract

Abstract This study aimed to explore the microbial diversity and metabolic functions of the skin and gut of the tiger tail seahorse (Hippocampus comes) and their surrounding environment using shotgun metagenomics and bioinformatics. Members belonging to the Pseudomonadota phylum were dominant on the skin, whereas Bacteroidota was dominant in the gut. Bacillota, Actinomycetota, and Planctomycetota were also detected in the seahorse-associated microbiome. Statistical analysis revealed significant differences (p < 0.01) in species diversity between skin and gut microbiomes, with members belonging to the Moraxellaceae family being dominant on the skin and the Bacteroidaceae family in the gut. Moreover, the surrounding environment (water or sediment) did not have a direct effect on the seahorse microbiome composition. Functional annotations highlighted the involvement of the skin microbiome in energy, lipid, and amino acid metabolism, as well as terpenoids and polyketides metabolism, xenobiotics biodegradation and metabolism, and cellular processes. Additionally, annotations indicated the presence of quorum sensing and intercellular communication. The relative abundance of bacteriocins was similar in both gut and skin, which is significant in shaping microbial communities due to their antimicrobial properties. Overall, the study highlights the importance of seahorse-microbe relationship for their well-being and holds implications for conservation and sustainable aquaculture.