Qurratulain Qureshi1*, Tejpal Dahiya1, Asif majeed mir2

Aquaculture is one of the fastest-growing sectors in global food production, driven by the rising demand for fish and seafood. However, this rapid expansion has led to growing concerns about the contamination of fish with enteric pathogens and the associated public health risks. The excessive use of antibiotics in aquaculture for disease control has significantly contributed to the emergence of antimicrobial resistance (AMR). Antibiotic-resistant bacteria, originating from aquaculture-related pathogens, can transfer resistance genes to human pathogens, exacerbating the challenge of treating bacterial infections. This article reviews the transfer mechanisms of antibiotic resistance from aquaculture bacteria to human pathogens, the risks associated with such transmission, and the environmental implications. The article further explores case studies from different countries, with a particular focus on India, where high levels of resistance have been reported in aquaculture-related bacteria. Additionally, the environmental impact of AMR, especially in water sources contaminated by pharmaceutical waste and hospital effluents, is examined. The findings underscore the need for a multisectoral and coordinated approach to mitigate the spread of AMR, including stricter regulations on antibiotic usage, improved waste management in aquaculture, and enhanced monitoring of water ecosystems. This comprehensive approach is vital to safeguard both human and marine health from the increasing threat of antimicrobial resistance.