Bacteroides zoogleoformans is part of the Bacteroides genus. Species in the genus Bacteroides carry out broad metabolic functions, including:

- degradation of complex plant polysaccharides,

- proteolytic activities (=the breakdown of proteins into smaller polypeptides or amino acids),

- de-conjugation of bile acids,

- mucosal barrier integrity,

- short chain fatty acid production,

- fatty acid storage and glucose metabolism.

Bacteroides spp. are maintained at a higher abundance in breastfed individuals into adulthood. Bacteroides fragilis plays an important role in the prevention of intestinal inflammation. An energy-restricted diet has been shown to increase B. fragilis in overweight adolescents. An increase in B. stercoris has been associated with higher risk of colon cancer. Decreased levels of Bacteroides spp. have been reported in association with multiple sclerosis, rheumatoid arthritis and Parkinson’s disease.

The predominant genera in the human colonic microbiota are Bacteroides and Prevotella, which belong to the major phyla Bacteroidetes.

Bacteroidetes are the most prominent gut microbes in much of the world. They are thought to help protect against obesity because they do not digest fat well.

The Bacteroidetes Phylum marker refers to a group of bacteria commonly found in the human gut, playing a crucial role in the digestive process. This phylum includes various species that are essential for breaking down complex molecules like carbohydrates and fibers, helping in the absorption of nutrients and the production of short-chain fatty acids which are vital for gut health. The presence and balance of Bacteroidetes can be an indicator of gut flora health; for instance, a healthy balance between Bacteroidetes and another major gut bacteria group, Firmicutes, is often associated with good digestive health.