Australia's most comprehensive gut microbiome test. Developed by Microba Life Sciences (Brisbane), the Microbiome Explorer uses whole-genome metagenomic sequencing to identify and quantify over 3,000 microbial species living in your gut.
Unlike older 16S rRNA tests that identify bacteria only at a broad genus level, metagenomics reads the entire DNA of every organism in the sample. That means species-level identification, functional pathway analysis, and a far more accurate picture of what your microbiome is actually doing — not just what is there.
Who it is for
Chronic bloating, gas or irregular bowel habits
IBS, SIBO or functional gut symptoms that have not resolved with standard treatment
Inflammatory bowel conditions (Crohn's, ulcerative colitis) — to assess microbial drivers
Autoimmune conditions where gut permeability is a suspected contributor
Mood disorders where the gut–brain axis may be involved
Skin conditions (eczema, acne, rosacea) with suspected gut involvement
Post-antibiotic recovery — to assess what has been lost and what needs rebuilding
A baseline before a major dietary change or gut-repair protocol
What it measures
Microbial species (3,000+) — species-level identification of bacteria, archaea, fungi and other microorganisms, mapped to known clinical associations.
Community diversity — alpha diversity (richness within your sample) and beta diversity (how your profile compares to healthy reference populations).
Functional pathways — short-chain fatty acid production (butyrate, propionate, acetate), vitamin synthesis (B12, K2, folate), bile acid metabolism and neurotransmitter modulation.
Keystone & pathogenic species — including Faecalibacterium prausnitzii and Akkermansia muciniphila.
Bacterial & parasitic pathogens — Vibrio, Salmonella, Shigella, Campylobacter, C. difficile toxin B, pathogenic E. coli, plus Dientamoeba fragilis, Cryptosporidium and Giardia.
Gut-lining & inflammation markers — secretory IgA, calprotectin, lactate, LPS and pancreatic elastase.
Sample collection
Type: Stool sample. Where: Single collection at home using the Microba kit with stabiliser. Time: A few minutes. Notes: Eat your normal diet for 3 days prior for the most representative result, and note any recent antibiotic, probiotic or antifungal use on the form.
Turnaround time
3 weeks from the date the laboratory receives your sample. Samples are processed in Brisbane by Microba Life Sciences.
How it works
Kit dispatched — your Microba collection kit is posted directly to your door with full instructions.
Collect at home — follow the simple stool collection protocol.
Post back — mail the completed kit to Microba using the prepaid return envelope.
Results released — your report is emailed to you the moment the lab releases it.
Test only is available and includes no consultation. Test + 60-min Telehealth Consult includes a Zoom review with Rohan, where results are interpreted alongside your symptoms, diet, medication history and other test results, and you receive a prioritised strategy covering dietary interventions, targeted probiotics, prebiotics and any further testing needed.
Important: Functional testing supports personalised nutrition and wellness guidance. It is not a substitute for medical care, diagnosis or treatment. Always speak with your GP or healthcare provider about medical concerns, medications or symptoms.
