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Legumes enhance pasture health and soil productivity by fixing atmospheric nitrogen and boosting soil microbiota. We investigated the effects of tropical pasture legumes, including butterfly pea (Clitoria ternatea), seca stylo (Stylosanthes scabra), desmanthus (Desmanthus virgatus), lablab (Lablab purpureus), and Wynn cassia (Chamaecrista rotundifolia), on the soil microbial community and buffel grass (Cenchrus ciliaris) gene expression. Additionally, we explored the impact of a phytogenic bioactive product (PHY) in the coculture system. A pot trial using soil enriched with cow paunch compost included four treatments: monoculture of buffel grass and five legume species with and without PHY supplementation and coculture of buffel grass with each legume species with and without PHY supplementation. Actinobacteriota and Firmicutes were the dominant bacterial phyla. Regardless of PHY application, the coculture of buffel grass with legumes positively influenced microbial composition and diversity. Transcriptomic analysis revealed significant gene expression changes in buffel grass shoots and roots, with each legume uniquely affecting nitrogen metabolism. Lablab and Wynn cassia exhibited similarities in modulating metabolic processes, butterfly pea contributed to mycotoxin detoxification, and desmanthus balanced cell death and growth. Seca stylo enhanced root cell growth and regeneration. These findings offer insights for optimizing legume–grass coculture systems, enhancing soil activity and promoting sustainable agriculture. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Context. The livestock industry demands alternative approaches to maintain animal health and productivity without using antimicrobials. Phytogenic feed additives, consisting of plant-derived compounds, offer promising benefits to grower-finisher pigs' gut microbiota and overall health. Aims. This study investigated the impact of essential oils and saponins as phytogenic feed additives on the gut microbiota and productivity of grower-finisher pigs. Methods. Four hundred male Large White × Landrace pigs were randomly allocated into control and treatment groups and provided with a basal diet. The treatment group supplemented commercial phytogenic feed additives. Performance data, general health, cumulative mortality, and bodyweight were monitored. Intestinal samples from different gut locations and rectal swab samples were collected for microbiota analysis. Key results. No significant difference in weight was observed between the two groups; however, the phytogenic feed additives notably affected gut microbiota. Greater microbial diversity and changes in genera abundance were evident. Campylobacter and Clostridium increased, while beneficial Lactobacillus increased, and Escherichia decreased. The supplemented group demonstratedmore consistent growth, with higher minimumweights. Conclusions. Phytogenic feed additives have a significant impact on the gut microbiota of grower-finisher pigs. A diversemicrobial community and specific changes in genera abundance were observed, indicating the potential role of these additives in modulating gut health. Implications. This study emphasises the potential advantages of using phytogenic feed additives to improve the health and productivity of livestock without the use of antibiotics. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]