- 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?
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