Yeasts associated with animals and their applications

Abstract

The association between yeasts and animals indicates a process of co-evolution and physiological adaptation. Yeasts form commensal or symbiotic relationships with their insect hosts, and these relationships with animal hosts play a significant role in disseminating yeasts, thereby contributing to the ecology and distribution of these microorganisms. These yeasts contribute significantly to animal ecosystems by synthesizing vitamins and nutrients, supporting gut development and function, acting as probiotics to enhance the immune system, and producing diverse volatile metabolites via specialized enzymes. This review explores various methods for isolating and identifying yeasts, with a specific focus on the diverse array of yeasts associated with the gastrointestinal (GI) tracts of different animals. Noteworthy applications of these yeasts as probiotics are discussed, encompassing their roles in fermenting cellobiose and D-xylose and their ability to produce extracellular enzymes. The economic potential of these yeast species is emphasized, with applications spanning agriculture, food, feed, cosmetics, and the chemical industry.