Aquaculture’s role in the growing threat of antimicrobial resistance

Aquaculture (fish and seafood farming) is increasingly recognized as an important but underappreciated driver of antimicrobial resistance (AMR). The use of antibiotics in these systems can create ideal conditions for resistant bacteria to develop and spread, with aquatic environments acting as reservoirs and amplification points for resistance genes. These resistant bacteria can reach humans through multiple pathways, including seafood consumption, environmental contamination, and water systems. As global aquaculture continues to expand, the article highlights the urgent need for better regulation, reduced antibiotic use, and improved monitoring to prevent it from becoming a major contributor to the global AMR crisis.