Temperature-dependent shifts in gut microbiota and metabolome of olive flounder (Paralichthys olivaceus): implications for cold-water aquaculture expansion and probiotic applications

This study demonstrates that environmental temperature significantly affects the gut microbiota and muscle metabolites of olive flounder. Higher temperatures diversified gut bacterial communities and altered metabolite profiles, with reductions in PUFAs and PC-related compounds linked to specific bacterial genera. These findings highlight the potential of these bacterial genera as biomarkers or probiotics for improving aquaculture practices and environmental adaptation strategies. By establishing a strong correlation between gut microbiota and muscle metabolites, this research provides insights that could contribute to sustainable flounder farming and enhance resilience to climate change.