About EquiBiome
Equibiome is the first equine dedicated laboratory service, using the latest MiSeq NGS technology to produce a snapshot of the internal microbial community.
The data produced provides horse owners with valuable insight into the diet, metabolism and energy production which together contribute to the health and performance of the horse.
Equibiome is a team of biochemists, equine microbiologists and geneticists. Our aim is to help horse owners better understand equine gut health and to take the guesswork out of what and how to feed their horses. We developed the Equibiome Test and Report to help horse owners receive helpful insights into their horses’ gut health.
We offer a range of equine faecal test kits and Biome Foods. Our Biome Foods are designed to support a healthy equine hind gut biome and can be recommended based on the results of the test.
So what's going on inside my horse's hind gut?
The equine intestinal tract houses an incredibly complex and diverse microbial population, producing energy for the horse. The microbes directly influence good health and performance. This includes temperament, energy levels, nutrient availability and vitamin production. Your horse is what he eats and the success of the diet depends first of all on knowing what is going on in the gut!
The microbiome in the horse’s hind gut is a complex ecosystem, which thrives on inter-relationships between the bacteria community and the host. Diversity within the bacteria community is considered a good thing, and is the main thing we look for as part of the Equibiome test.
Common medications such as antibiotics and anti-inflammatories can reduce bacteria diversity. Loss of diversity in the equine gut increases the opportunities for a takeover bid from stronger unwanted species, leaving the biome full of unwanted additions.
EquiBiome Test Results
The rRNA extraction process is technically challenging and lengthy. Trillions of bacteria are sequenced and interpreted to give you an accurate and real time picture of your horse's biome.
We aim to get the results to you as soon as possible, but please allow 8-10 weeks from the time we receive the sample to the return of your results.
We use the IBERS (Institute of Biological, Environment and Rural Studies) research lab with the leading geneticist Dr. Matt Hegarty, and the same lab technician each time.
The EquiBiome Report
The Equibiome Report uses the 16S rRNA Gene to produce an accurate interpretation of the microbes within the horse’s hind gut. The report is a powerful analytical tool. It is not intended to diagnose any disease. Please consult your vet if your horse is experiencing any symptoms relating to gastric discomfort. If you have any questions about the Equibiome Test or Report, take a look at our FAQs page.
A simple faecal test will provide information on the numbers of 'good' bacteria and other members of the microbial community, including archaea, fungi and the protozoa.
A balance of all members of the microbiome is crucial for optimum health and performance.
Equibiome Blog
Our blog features a number of articles covering a range of equine gut health topics. We comment on the latest research, offer insights into the role of hind gut bacteria and provide more information on the Equibiome Test and Report. Our latest blog articles are featured below:
