Advancing Animal Nutrition with Probiotics: Targeted Benefits and Pathogen Inhibition Mechanisms

Probiotics, which are live microorganisms like bacteria and yeasts, give health benefits that go beyond basic nutrition when ingested in suitable amounts. These microbes influence the gastrointestinal microbiota by restoring balance and enhancing activity, playing a critical role in maintaining gut homeostasis. However, factors such as dietary and management practices can disrupt gut microbial communities, negatively affecting the health and performance of livestock animals. Probiotics or their byproducts can also modulate immune responses by interacting with T cells, antigen-presenting cells, and other immune components, giving them immunoregulatory properties. This chapter delves into the species-specific effects of probiotics on ruminants, livestock, aquaculture species, and monogastric animals, exploring their documented implications for animal nutrition, immune health, and overall performance.