IPB University Professor: Microbiome Key to Success of Sumatran Orangutan Conservation
The microbiome is considered an important element in maintaining the health and successful adaptation of Sumatran orangutans after their release from captivity. This was conveyed by Prof Safika during a press conference prior to her scientific lecture at IPB University on Thursday (6/26).
The gut microbiome is a collection of microorganisms in the gut that play a crucial role in feed fermentation, vitamin synthesis, short-chain fatty acid (SCFA) production, detoxification, and immune system modulation. These microorganisms include bacteria, archaea, fungi, yeast, protozoa, and viruses.
“This method could be the key to the success of orangutan conservation as an endemic species of Indonesia that is now critically endangered,” she said during her presentation via Zoom Meeting.
Prof Safika found that the gut microbiome plays a strategic role in supporting the immune system and metabolism of orangutans. This microbiome influences the orangutans’ adaptive capacity, especially after rehabilitation and release into the wild.
Her research revealed that wild orangutans have a more diverse and stable microbiome compared to those in captivity. Conversely, microbiome imbalance (dysbiosis) in orangutans undergoing rehabilitation often leads to digestive disorders, chronic inflammation, and even adaptation failure.
“The microbiome can serve as a non-invasive indicator to assess readiness for release,” she stated. She emphasized the importance of incorporating microbiota health into standard protocols within orangutan conservation programs.
As a solution, Prof Safika recommends the use of natural probiotics from local isolates, specifically Lactobacillus bacteria (BAL) derived from wild orangutans. Types of LAB such as Lactobacillus plantarum and Weissella paramesenteroides have been proven effective in strengthening the intestinal mucosal layer, inhibiting pathogen growth, and helping restore microbiota balance after antibiotic treatment.
“Since probiotics are live bacteria, we developed them using encapsulation methods to ensure stability against environmental changes and guarantee they remain alive until they reach the orangutan’s digestive tract,” she explained.
Furthermore, Prof Safika recommended integrating a microbiome-based approach into data-driven and genomic conservation systems. She emphasized the need for regular microbiome monitoring, using genomic analysis to detect dysbiosis early on, and incorporating local probiotics as part of wildlife health management.
“This approach could serve as a new conservation model, not only for orangutans but also for other wild animals,” she concluded. (MW) (IAAS/FMT)
