Multilocus sequence typing of antimicrobial-resistant zoonotic bacteria from shrimp aquaculture environments in Selangor, Malaysia

This study examined zoonotic bacteria in shrimp aquaculture environments in Selangor, Malaysia, focusing on Vibrio parahaemolyticus, Escherichia coli, and Salmonella—major pathogens associated with seafood-related illnesses. Using multilocus sequence typing (MLST), researchers identified several novel genetic sequence types, including multidrug-resistant (MDR) strains of V. parahaemolyticus and E. coli. Some strains showed genetic links to environmental sources in Asia, while others were related to animal-associated strains from North America. The findings suggest that shrimp aquaculture environments may act as reservoirs for zoonotic pathogens and antimicrobial resistance, highlighting potential risks for food safety and the global spread of resistant bacteria.