In order to find out which bacteria have a particularly significant influence, the Kiel researchers first colonized germ-free animals with one defined bacterial species each in the next step.

The researchers revealed the neuronal circuitry that is related to feeding behaviors in real time in live animals. Hydra that did not carry bacteria, known as germ-free animals, were analyzed first.

As for how the gang gets together, the authors suggest that insects may play a role in transporting fungi and bacteria from one decomposing animal to the next. As well as providing a curious ...