Isolation, Characterization of Antibiotic Resistance Bacteria in Selected Fish Pond Ecosystems in Osun State, Nigeria

Abstract

The increasing prevalence of antibiotic-resistant bacteria in aquatic ecosystems poses a significant threat to public health and environmental sustainability. This study aimed to isolate and characterize antibiotic-resistant bacteria from selected fish pond ecosystems in Osun State, Nigeria. Sixty (60) fish water samples and sixty (60) fish sediment samples were collected from selected fish ponds located in different regions of the state using a purposive sampling technique. The samples were processed for the isolation of bacterial strains using standard microbiological techniques. Isolates were identified through morphological and conventional biochemical methods using Bergey’s Manual of Determinative Bacteriology, while their antibiotic resistance profiles were determined using the disc diffusion method against a panel of twelve (12) commonly used antibiotics. The results revealed the presence of a diverse range of bacterial species, including Escherichia coli, Klebsiella spp., Salmonella spp., Pseudomonas aeruginosa, and Staphylococcus aureus, with a high prevalence of antibiotic-resistant strains. Resistance was most commonly observed against ceftazidime, cefotaxime, vancomycin, cefuroxime, gentamicin, and ciprofloxacin. The findings revealed a growing issue of antibiotic-resistant bacteria in aquatic ecosystems, showing a complex interplay between antibiotic use, environmental factors, and the emergence of resistance. This was a direct consequence of anthropogenic activities, such as the misuse of antibiotics in aquaculture, agricultural practices, and the improper disposal of antibiotics. This study highlights the urgent need for the implementation of effective monitoring and management strategies to mitigate the spread of antibiotic-resistant bacteria in aquatic ecosystems. Furthermore, it underscores the importance of promoting sustainable and responsible use of antibiotics in aquaculture to safeguard both human health and the integrity of aquatic environments.