Taxonomy and Pathogenicity of Aeromonas Species in Fish and Humans

Aeromonads are the opportunistic gram-negative pathogens affecting both aquatic animals and humans, often causing septicaemic diseases. In the fishes, Aeromonads cause hemorrhagic septicemia, dropsy, and tail and fin rot. Similarly, certain species of Aeromonas are causing gastroenteritis, eye infections, peritonitis, and urinary tract infections in humans. The taxonomy of the Aeromonas genus is highly complex due to its phenotypic variability. To date, 41 species have been identified, of which at least 19 are recognised as major human pathogens. Moreover Aeromonads are widely distributed and can be isolated from diverse habitats, including water, fish, shrimp, poultry, milk, and other food products. This review suggests that pathogenic Aeromonas species poses significant health risks to both fish and humans. Given their potential for causing infections, these bacteria are likely to remain a major public health concern in the future.