LAB Ecology

Lactic acid bacteria (LAB) are a large group of bacteria that vary in their adaption to specific niches and are therefore found in a variety of different habitats.  Despite their extensive use in inter alia food fermentation processes, the natural habitats of many LAB remain unknown to this day. We aim to gain insights into the ecology of (biotechnological relevant) LAB and possible transmission routes between habitats. We are especially interested in LAB associated with insects and flowers, as a potential source for food fermentation microbiota.