Title : AMR in aquaculture and implications on one health

Abstract:

Antimicrobial resistance (AMR) is one of the most pressing global threats to infectious disease control and public health. Aquaculture, one of the fastest-growing food-producing sectors, is increasingly recognized as an important component of the AMR–One Health interface. The intensive culture of fish and shrimp, frequent disease outbreaks, and inappropriate or excessive antimicrobial use can exert selection pressure for resistant bacteria and antimicrobial resistance genes (ARGs). Aquaculture environments can subsequently serve as reservoirs and dissemination pathways for resistance through water, sediment, farmed animals, seafood, farm workers and surrounding ecosystems.

The movement of resistant bacteria and ARGs is not restricted to aquaculture systems. Agricultural runoff, livestock production, municipal wastewater and human activities can introduce resistant microorganisms into aquatic environments, while aquaculture effluents may facilitate their further dissemination. Horizontal transfer of ARGs between bacterial populations may increase the persistence and spread of resistance, creating potential consequences for infectious disease management, food safety and human health.

A One Health approach is therefore essential to address AMR in aquaculture. Preventive strategies, including vaccination, improved biosecurity, disease surveillance, rapid diagnostics, optimized husbandry, water-quality management, probiotics and other alternatives to antimicrobials, can reduce disease occurrence and antimicrobial dependence. Responsible antimicrobial stewardship, together with integrated surveillance of antimicrobial use, resistant bacteria and ARGs across aquatic animals, humans and the environment, is critical for early detection and containment of emerging resistance threats.

Recognizing aquaculture as an integral component of the One Health AMR framework will be essential for protecting aquatic animal health, environmental integrity, seafood safety and human health. Strengthening collaboration among aquaculture, veterinary, environmental and public health sectors can contribute substantially to reducing antimicrobial selection pressure and limiting the emergence and dissemination of AMR.

Keywords: Antimicrobial resistance; Aquaculture; One Health; Antimicrobial resistance genes; Infectious diseases; Antimicrobial stewardship; Seafood safety.

Biography:

Dr. K. Pani Prasad, presently Professor and Research Coordinator at Andhra Pradesh Fisheries University, Andhra Pradesh, India and former Dean (ER) at CIFE, Mumbai, is a distinguished scientist and educator with over 30 years of expertise in aquatic animal health. He has made significant strides in the development of advanced disease diagnostics and control measures, particularly for fish and shrimp, and is a recognized authority on antimicrobial resistance. His broad career has spanned roles as a researcher, professor, scientist, extension worker, and administrator, where he has continually driven innovation and excellence in the field. 

Dr. Prasad is particularly known for his pioneering work in creating immunodiagnostic kits, which enable rapid and precise detection of diseases in aquaculture. His expertise has made a lasting impact in the fight against antimicrobial resistance, an urgent challenge in modern aquaculture. Beyond his research, Dr. Pani Prasad has contributed his knowledge and leadership to international and national projects. He has served as a National Consultant for esteemed organizations, including the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) and the Department of Fisheries, Government of Andhra Pradesh, where he helped enhance quality control in shrimp hatcheries and laboratories. 

His research portfolio is impressive, with more than 170 publications in top-tier, peer reviewed journals. As a Principal Investigator, he has led numerous externally funded projects, including those supported by the Department of Biotechnology and the National Fisheries Development Board. These initiatives focus on aquatic disease surveillance, fish health networking, and tackling antimicrobial resistance within the fisheries and aquaculture sectors across India. 

Dr. Pani Prasad's mentorship has shaped the next generation of fisheries experts. He has guided 15 Ph.D. students and 68 Master's students, helping them explore vital aspects of health management in aquaculture. In addition to his academic contributions, he has conducted over 22 training programs for farmers, researchers, and students, addressing crucial topics such as disease diagnostics and antimicrobial resistance. 

Through his extensive research, leadership, and dedication, Dr. Prasad has made transformative contributions to the field of aquatic animal health, significantly advancing sustainable practices in fisheries and aquaculture.