Global distribution of antimicrobial resistance genes in aquaculture

Abstract Aquaculture has rapidly developed into one of the most fast-expanding food industries, providing an essential source of protein for humanity worldwide. The rapid growth of the aquaculture industry is closely associated with the crucial role of antimicrobials in the prevention and treatment of animal diseases. Nevertheless, the irrational utilization of antimicrobials gives rise to the emergence of pathogen resistance, which poses a potential threat to human health and environmental sustainability. This issue has garnered considerable attention from international organizations and has escalated into a global public health crisis that requires urgent intervention. This paper undertakes a review of the sources of antimicrobial resistance in aquaculture, drawing on data from Microbial Browser for Identification of Genetic and Genomic Elements (MicroBIGG-E) and related literature. The characteristics and distribution patterns of drug resistance genes in pathogenic bacteria of diseased aquatic animals and food-borne bacteria of contaminated aquatic products were elaborated in detail. The emergence of resistant aquatic bacteria is not solely attributable to the utilization of antimicrobials in aquaculture, but rather is closely related to human social activities. Diverse antimicrobial resistance genes related to tetracyclines, aminoglycosides, β-lactams, quinolones, sulfonamides, and amphenicols that coexist in foodborne pathogens might contribute to multidrug resistance in aquaculture. This review also evaluates the potential risks of antimicrobial resistance in aquaculture with respect to human health, food safety, and ecological balance. Government entities, research institutions, and private companies are adopting proactive measures and initiating specific strategies to alleviate the dissemination of antimicrobial resistance, thereby enhancing human and animal health as well as ecological sustainability.