Crossword Genius

Lots of bacteria in part of the gut unknown (6)

Ross

I believe the answer is:

colony

I'm a little stuck... Click here to teach me more about this clue!

'lots of bacteria in part' is the definition.
The definition and answer can be both locations as well as being singular nouns.
Perhaps they are linked in a way I don't understand?

'the gut unknown' is the wordplay.
'the gut' becomes 'colon' (colon is a kind of gut).
'unknown' becomes 'y' (algebra).
'colon'+'y'='COLONY'

'of' acts as a link.

Can you help me to learn more?

(Other definitions for colony that I've seen before include "Country controlled by another's settlers" , "Overseas settlement" , "It is settled" , "New settlement abroad" , "Dependency" .)

I've seen this clue in The Times.
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