A stern concerning the issue of antimicrobial resistance in aquaculture – a review

The practice of aquaculture involves the cultivation of aquatic organisms such as fish and shellfish, has emerged as an important sector in India’s economy. Oppositely, the use of antibiotics in aquaculture raised worries about its effect on the environment and community well-being. Antimicrobial resistance (AMR) is a significant challenge in the field of aquaculture due to the misuse use of antibiotics in aquaculture as growth promoters which lead to the development and spread of antibiotic-resistant bacteria (ARB), making it difficult to treat bacterial infections. It can also contribute to the antibiotic resistance genes (ARGs) in the environment, which has implications for human health. Modern aquaculture systems act as a “hotspot” for the source of pollutants such as AMR, sanitizers, disinfectants, heavy metals, pharmaceutical effluents, pesticides, and industrial, hospitals, animals, and domestic wastes. Further, hygienic practices by workers, biosecurity measures and all inputs, such as fish feed, therapeutics, probiotics, metaphylactic agents, water and seeds are important drivers of AMR. Recognizing the urgency, sustainable aquaculture practices are crucial in India to reduce antibiotic use and combat AMR. It also promotes a more holistic and sustainable approach to aquaculture in India, according to the original source. To combat AMR in aquaculture, it’s essential to implement responsible antibiotic use, strengthen monitoring, and adopt alternative disease prevention methods. Given the global reach of aquaculture and the risk of ARB spreading across borders, coordinated action is needed at all levels, from local to international, to address this issue.