Gut Health in Ostriches ( Struthio camelus ): Insights Into Intestinal Structure, Functions, Microbiome, and Improvement Strategies

ABSTRACT The ostrich ( Struthio camelus ), a herbivorous avian species, possesses distinctive characteristics including rapid growth rates, strong disease resistance, and significant economic value in modern agriculture. These traits are largely supported by its well‐developed intestinal system. Intestinal health is critical for nutrient digestion and absorption, and maintaining optimal gut function is essential for enhancing overall health and production performance. Despite advances in understanding gut health in other poultry, critical knowledge gaps persist in ostriches: limited species‐specific data on the regulatory mechanisms of microbial metabolites in intestinal barrier function and immune modulation, and a lack of targeted strategies for optimizing gut health across different growth stages. This review summarizes the unique intestinal structure, physiological functions, and gut microbiota of ostriches, explores their interrelationship with intestinal health, and discusses the significance of intestinal health for their overall well‐being. Additionally, this review highlights emerging strategies, particularly the application of probiotics for improving intestinal health, which could enhance the health status of ostrich populations and drive the sustainable development of the ostrich farming industry.