The bacterial species residing in your colon typically remain unchanged from early childhood, with about 80 percent of gut microflora being inherited from the mother during birth. This transfer establishes a stable and consistent microbiome that persists throughout life.

According to author Mary Roach in her book "Gulp: Adventures on the Alimentary Canal," the gut flora is not only persistent but also unique enough that it can reveal connections to a person's ancestry. This fascinating aspect of microbiology highlights the deep-rooted relationship between our own health and the microbial life we inherit.