- Researchers study gut bacteria in wild animals.
- The work is in Etosha National Park.
- Etosha is in Namibia and is very dry.
- They collect fresh feces from many animals.
- Lab tests identify the bacteria in samples.
- Some animal groups have similar gut bacteria.
- Other groups do not show that pattern.
- The results show how the environment matters.
Difficult words
- researcher — person who studies animals and natureResearchers
- bacteria — very small living things that can live in bodies
- feces — solid waste from an animal's body
- identify — to find and name something
- environment — the natural place where plants and animals live
- sample — a small amount taken to testsamples
Tip: hover, focus or tap highlighted words in the article to see quick definitions while you read or listen.
Discussion questions
- Have you seen wild animals?
- Is the environment important for animals?
- Which animal would you like to see in a park?
Related articles
New drug pair helps fight rifampicin-resistant tuberculosis
Scientists paired rifampicin with a probe called AAP-SO2 that binds bacterial RNA polymerase at a different site and slows transcription. The pair killed resistant mutants in culture and was especially effective in a rabbit model.
Local Communities Join Management of Manyange Na Elombo-Campo
Cameroon's Manyange Na Elombo-Campo MPA covers 110,300 hectares and includes 10 villages. A June 28, 2024 guide and a local charter involve communities in management, but illegal fishing, funding uncertainty and technical limits remain challenges.
World Migratory Bird Day 2025: Protecting Birds in Caribbean Cities
World Migratory Bird Day 2025 fell on October 11 with the theme “Shared Spaces: Creating Bird-Friendly Cities and Communities.” The story describes bird migrations, threats from development and climate change, and ways communities can help.