Spatial ecology of the <i>Capnocytophaga</i> genus in the human oral cavity

including low-prevalence strains that are preferentially detected in sites outside the primary plaque habitat of this taxon. IMPORTANCE: to dental plaque (including supragingival, subgingival, and periodontal pockets) and identifies metabolic adaptations, such as distinct respiratory, carbohydrate, and amino acid pathways, that may drive niche-specific survival. These findings support the site-specialist hypothesis and enhance our understanding of oral microbial community structure, laying a foundation for future research into microbial interactions and targeted therapies for oral health.