How Bird Incubation Affects Bacteria on Eggs
Author Information
Author(s): Matthew D. Shawkey, Mary K. Firestone, Eoin L. Brodie, Steven R. Beissinger
Primary Institution: University of California, Berkeley
Hypothesis
Avian incubation reduces the risk of trans-shell infection by limiting microbial growth of pathogenic bacteria on eggshells.
Conclusion
Incubation inhibits the growth and diversification of bacteria on eggshells, preventing changes in bacterial assemblages.
Supporting Evidence
- Bacterial assemblages on incubated eggs remained constant, while those on unincubated eggs changed significantly.
- Taxon richness increased significantly on unincubated eggs but remained static on incubated eggs.
- Six indicator species were found on unincubated eggs, while none were found on incubated eggs.
Takeaway
When birds sit on their eggs, it stops bad bacteria from growing on the eggshells, keeping the eggs safe.
Methodology
Bacterial assemblages on naturally incubated and experimentally unincubated eggs were compared using a universal 16S rRNA microarray.
Potential Biases
Potential bias due to the specific conditions of the study site and species.
Limitations
The small sample size may limit the generalizability of the findings.
Participant Demographics
Eggs from a box-nesting population of pearly-eyed thrashers in the El Yunque rainforest.
Statistical Information
P-Value
p<0.01 for moisture comparison, p<0.05 for taxon richness changes.
Statistical Significance
p<0.05
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
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