Episode 6 - Elin Videvall: “Wild Microbiomes”

Welcome to another episode of MVIF Conversations – the Podcast!In this episode, we are joined by Elin Videvall, an evolutionary biologist and microbiome researcher at Uppsala University whose work explores the hidden microbial world of wild animals. From ostriches and reindeer to birds, giraffes, and other wildlife, her research investigates how microbial communities influence animal health, survival, evolution, and conservation.Together with our host Pamela Ferretti, dr. Videvall discusses how early-life microbial exposure can shape growth and survival, why captivity can dramatically alter animal microbiomes, and how microbes may represent a missing piece in wildlife conservation efforts. The conversation also explores surprising differences between the microbiomes of mammals and birds, the challenges of studying microbes in free-ranging animals, and the vast microbial diversity that remains undiscovered in nature.A fascinating discussion on wildlife, ecology, conservation, and the invisible microbial communities that help shape life in the wild.Want to know more about MVIF? Visit: https://www.microbiome-vif.org/