Understanding the shift in bacterial community structure in response to antibiotic pollution and rise in antibiotic resistant genes within Dapeng Cove sea, China

Abstract

Antibiotic pollution in marine environments poses a growing threat to ecosystem health and biodiversity. This study evaluated the shift in bacterial community structure in response to antibiotic pollution and rise in antibiotic resistant genes within the ecologically significant Dapeng Cove, Southeast China. Utilizing molecular analysis and bioinformatics, the study examined bacterial community structures, antibiotic concentrations, and the distribution of antibiotic resistance genes (ARGs) across 5 sites (A, B, C, D and E) within the Dapeng Cove sea, China. The findings revealed significant variations in bacterial diversity and ARG concentrations among sampling sites, with elevated antibiotic pollution at sites D and E correlating with reduced alpha diversity and dominance of resistant taxa such as Umbonibacter species. In contrast, site B exhibited lower antibiotic levels and higher microbial diversity, suggesting the resilience of less impacted ecosystems. ARGs, including intl1, sul1, and tetA, were most prevalent in heavily polluted sites, reflecting the role of antibiotic contamination in promoting horizontal gene transfer and resistance proliferation. Exposure to antibiotic pollution e further disrupted coral-associated bacterial communities, highlighting the vulnerability of marine ecosystems antibiotic pollution. This study provides critical insights into the interplay between antibiotic pollution, microbial ecology, and coral health, offering a foundation for policies addressing the environmental impacts of pharmaceutical contaminants.