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Unraveling the nexus: Microplastics, antibiotics, and ARGs interactions, threats and control in aquaculture – A review
Summary
This review examines how microplastics, antibiotics, and antibiotic resistance genes interact in aquaculture environments, where all three contaminants frequently co-occur. Researchers found that microplastics can absorb antibiotics and serve as surfaces where resistant bacteria thrive, potentially amplifying the spread of antibiotic resistance. The study emphasizes the need for better management strategies to control these combined pollutants in fish farming operations.
In recent years, aquaculture has expanded rapidly to address food scarcity and provides high-quality aquatic products. However, this growth has led to the release of significant effluents, containing emerging contaminants like antibiotics, microplastics (MPs), and antibiotic resistance genes (ARGs). This study investigated the occurrence and interactions of these pollutants in aquaculture environment. Combined pollutants, such as MPs and coexisting adsorbents, were widespread and could include antibiotics, heavy metals, resistance genes, and pathogens. Elevated levels of chemical pollutants on MPs could lead to the emergence of resistance genes under selective pressure, facilitated by bacterial communities and horizontal gene transfer (HGT). MPs acted as vectors, transferring pollutants into the food web. Various technologies, including membrane technology, coagulation, and advanced oxidation, have been trialed for pollutants removal, each with its benefits and drawbacks. Future research should focus on ecologically friendly treatment technologies for emerging contaminants in aquaculture wastewater. This review provided insights into understanding and addressing newly developing toxins, aiming to develop integrated systems for effective aquaculture wastewater treatment.