Comparative study of gut microbiota on fat deposition in European meat pigeons and Yuzhong pigeons

The rate of fat deposition is a critical indicator for assessing the quality of roast squab. Fat deposition in meat pigeons is closely related to their intestinal flora. However, few studies have examined the relationship between gut microbiota structure and fat synthesis in pigeons. This study focused on 28-day-old roast squabs of European meat pigeons and Yuzhong pigeons, which exhibit significant differences in fat synthesis and weight. We analyzed the molecular mechanisms by which the intestinal microbiota of different meat pigeons influences fat deposition. Additionally, we evaluated the effects of intestinal digesta from these pigeons on pigeon milk digestion and absorption using a monogastric animal simulation digestive system. Results indicated that the intestinal microflora structures of European meat pigeons and Yuzhong pigeons were significantly different. In European meat pigeons, Romboutsia promoted fat absorption and utilization by influencing lipid metabolism. In contrast, Lactobacillus and Turicibacter in Yuzhong meat pigeons facilitated fat decomposition in roast squab by affecting bile acid transformation and β-oxidation. Furthermore, gut microbiota can influence the enzymatic activity of acetylCoA carboxylase through biotin synthesis, thereby affecting fat synthesis and the overall transport and deposition of fat in the body. This study reveals, for the first time, the influence of meat pigeons’ gut microbiota on fat digestion and absorption, laying the foundation for developing specialized probiotic products for meat pigeons.