# Inquiry regarding the compatible ChocoPhlAn database version for MetaPhlAn 4.2.4 and StrainPhlAn 4.1

**URL:** <https://forum.biobakery.org/t/inquiry-regarding-the-compatible-chocophlan-database-version-for-metaphlan-4-2-4-and-strainphlan-4-1/8844>\
**Category:** StrainPhlAn\
**Created:** [March 27, 2026, 1:57pm UTC](https://forum.biobakery.org/t/inquiry-regarding-the-compatible-chocophlan-database-version-for-metaphlan-4-2-4-and-strainphlan-4-1/8844 "2026-03-27T13:57:34Z")\
**Posts on this page:** 1\
**Page:** 1

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**Author:** ![TiffCho](https://avatars.discourse-cdn.com/v4/letter/t/58956e/32.png) [@TiffCho](https://forum.biobakery.org/u/TiffCho)\
**Post date:** [March 27, 2026, 1:57pm UTC](https://forum.biobakery.org/t/inquiry-regarding-the-compatible-chocophlan-database-version-for-metaphlan-4-2-4-and-strainphlan-4-1/8844/1 "2026-03-27T13:57:34Z")

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Hi,

I am a graduate student researching the human microbiome. I am currently using **MetaPhlAn 4.2.4** and **StrainPhlAn 4.1** on a **high-performance computing cluster without direct internet connection.**

I would like to clarify which ChocoPhlAn database version is most recommended for these specific tool versions. Currently, I have **mpa\_vOct22\_CHOCOPhlAnSGB\_202212** installed and it seems to be working. However, I noticed that the latest version available on the server is **mpa\_vJan25\_CHOCOPhlAnSGB\_202503**.

My questions are:

1. Is MetaPhlAn 4.2.4 fully compatible with the **vJan25** database?

2. Does StrainPhlAn 4.1 require a specific database version to ensure the best results for strain-level analysis?

3. Should I stick with the **vOct22** version, or is it highly recommended to manually update to **vJan25**?

Thank you for your help!

Best regards, [Your Name]