The influence of prenatal nutrition on ruminal microbiome of beef cattle

Maternal nutrition resulted in modest yet significant alterations in the ruminal microbial communities of the offspring. The Supplemented group exhibited higher relative abundance of <i>Fibrobacter</i> and <i>Prevotellaceae UCG-003</i>, with reduced abundance of <i>Xylanibacter</i>. Pathway analysis revealed enrichment of starch and sucrose metabolism, along with modulation of amino acid biosynthesis and nitrogen metabolism, suggesting potential improvements in microbial protein synthesis and nitrogen utilization. In conclusion, maternal nutrition during gestation has long-term effects on the offspring's ruminal microbiota, influencing specific bacterial taxa and metabolic pathways linked to carbohydrate metabolism and nutrient utilization.