Antimicrobial Resistance (AMR) and Alternative Strategies for Combating AMR in Aquaculture

Antimicrobial resistance (AMR) in food production systems is regarded as a major threat to public health and nutrition security. Due to the potential for horizontal gene transfer, AMR in aquaculture might eventually spread to clinically important strains found in the environment, thereby affecting human health and the whole ecosystem. It is essential to comprehend the mechanisms driving AMR in aquaculture, including plasmids, integrons, and gene cassettes, to develop AMR risk management strategies. This review article presents an in-depth analysis of AMR in aquaculture and potential risks it presents to public health and the environment. The review provides a comprehensive understanding of the complexities of AMR by delving into the molecular and genetic factors that contribute to its spread. It also highlights the antibiotic usage pattern in different countries. The article also elaborates on alternative strategies that can be adopted to prevent and control fish diseases without negatively impacting the environment. This understanding may aid in the development of plans aimed at halting the spread of AMR and safeguarding public health. The various alternative approaches discussed in the review can offer potential solutions for controlling fish diseases in a manner that is both effective and environmentally safe for ecosystems and public health.