ORCID

0000-0002-5055-1199

Keywords

avian microbiome, nestling development, microbial diversity, community composition, host-microbe interactions, carbamate exposure

Abstract

Eastern purple martins (Progne subis subis) rely entirely on human-provided nesting structures throughout their breeding range in eastern North America. To control haematophagous mites that commonly infest these nests, many landlords apply the carbamate insecticide, carbaryl. Although effective at reducing ectoparasite populations, carbaryl exposure may have unintended effects on the gut microbiome, growth, and condition of developing birds. This study examined the effects of carbaryl exposure on gut microbial communities and morphometric condition in wild nestlings. Nests were experimentally treated with carbaryl, and nestling morphometrics and fecal microbiomes were compared between treated and untreated groups at 18 days post-hatch. Microbial alpha diversity did not differ between treated and control nestlings, indicating comparable levels of microbial richness and evenness. However, beta diversity analyses revealed significant differences in microbial community composition associated with carbaryl exposure. Taxonomic summaries further indicated shifts in the relative abundance of several bacterial families, including increased representation of Mycoplasmoidaceae in treated birds. Morphometric measurements of body mass, wing chord, and head-bill length did not differ between treatment groups. These results suggest that carbaryl exposure did not affect overall microbial diversity or nestling growth but was associated with significant compositional changes in the developing gut microbiome. Because the avian gut microbiome plays an important role in host metabolism and immune function, such shifts may have long-term implications for nestling health and survival. These findings highlight the importance of evaluating potential consequences of insecticide use in wildlife management systems.

Completion Date

2026

Semester

Spring

Committee Chair

Fitak, Robert

Degree

Master of Science (M.S.)

College

College of Sciences

Department

Biology

Format

PDF

Document Type

Thesis

Identifier

DP0053241

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