Longitudinal dynamics and characterization of discriminative taxa in fecal microbiota of suckling and weaned piglets

Introduction: Early-life microbial colonization is fundamental to porcine health and production efficiency. However, the distinction between age-related development and weaning-induced shifts in the gut microbiota remains insufficiently characterized. Methods: This study investigated the longitudinal development of fecal microbiota in Duroc × Landrace × Yorkshire piglets from birth to day 28. Results and discussion: were identified as discriminative taxa in suckling and weaned piglets. These findings provide a map of microbial assembly and offer theoretical targets for mitigating weaning stress through microbial modulation.