WorldFish activities on AMR, AMU and residues in aquaculture

Abstract

The presentation showcases WorldFish’s ongoing and planned initiatives on antimicrobial resistance (AMR), antimicrobial use (AMU), and residue monitoring in aquaculture under the One Health framework. It highlights extensive fieldwork in Bangladesh, including enumerator training, AMU/AMR surveys across tilapia-dominant systems, and the development of a comprehensive aquamedicine photobook cataloging over 300 brands, including critically important antibiotics. It also features results from antimicrobial residue testing of tilapia muscle samples using U-HPLC, revealing detectable residues of sulfamethoxazole and amoxicillin above permissible levels. Future plans include expanding surveillance to other aquaculture hubs and species, environmental residue testing, and developing rapid detection methods. The presentation underscores the need for cross-sectoral coordination, evidence-based surveillance tools, and stronger regulatory frameworks to mitigate AMR risks in aquatic food systems.