Profiling the diversity of the village chicken faecal microbiota using 16S rRNA gene and metagenomic sequencing data to reveal patterns of gut microbiome signatures

The detection of zoonotic bacteria such as <i>Escherichia coli</i> and S<i>treptococcus</i> spp. highlights potential health risks to humans through the food chain, emphasizing the importance of improved household hygiene practices. This study underscores the role of the gut microbiome in village chicken health and adaptability, linking microbial diversity to production efficiency in low-resource settings. Targeted interventions and further research are crucial for mitigating zoonotic risks and enhancing sustainability in village chicken farming.