WHAT THE EVIDENCE SAYS
Of 62 cows sampled, only three lacked attached algal taxa. Investigators found 80 microalgal species on coats and 105 in wetlands, including 47 shared species, suggesting possible dispersal across wetland boundaries.
WHY IT MATTERS / OUR READ
Working livestock can carry microscopic ecological passengers, an interaction often left out of habitat connectivity models.
CAVEATS / UNCERTAINTY
Algae attached to coats are not proof of viability, dispersal success or ecological benefit. Original research published June 2026.
SOURCE
Hydrobiologia — Fatturi et al. (24 Jun 2026)
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