Prevalence of extended spectrum beta lactamase producing escherichia coli in integrated agro-aquaculture in Morogoro, Tanzania

Masters Thesis

Integrated aquaculture and other agricultural activities involve use of animal manure directly or indirectly into the pond. This farming practice increase production and minimize the production cost. Despite the benefits, this may impose diseases to fish and consumers. Use of antibiotics in poultry integrated with aquaculture may impose antimicrobial resistance to fish. Extended spectrum beta lactomase (ESBL) producing Escherichia coli is resistant genes that inhibit the function of third generation cephalosporins. The aim of this study was to establish the prevalence of extended spectrum beta lactamase producing Escherichia coli in direct and indirect integrated aquaculture in Morogoro, Tanzania. A total of 384 fish samples were collected from 26 ponds after recording water quality parameters. Isolation of bacteria was done according to standard procedures, where 174 isolates of E.coli were obtained out of 384 cultured samples. Positive samples were tested against Amoxicillin/Clavulanic acid, Cefotaxime, Ceftazdime, Sulfamethoxazole, Ampicillin, Amoxicillin and Ciprofloxacin antibiotics using double disc diffusion test, and then further tested using PCR for detection of ESBL resistant genes encoding CTX, SHV and TEM genes. Water quality parameters were within the normal range and suitable for culture and growth of Nile tilapia. Other pond management practices such as feed, feeding, use of manure, preparation of pond and quality of seed were poorly managed. Amoxicillin and Ampicillin antibiotics showed 100% resistivity followed by Sulfamethoxazole (93.6%). Cefotaxime (70%). High prevalence of ESBL genes shown in TEM gene 52%, followed by SHV 36% and CTX 9.7%. There were no significant differences for occurrence of ESBL genes between the direct IAA and indirect IAA (P>0.05). Presence of ESBL genes in fish have a direct effect to fish and consumers. They resist function of antibiotics that are used to treat diseases, therefore it is recommended that ESBL genes be screened to farmed fish to establish its prevalence before its consumption by consumers.

Training and Research in Aquatic and Environmental Health in Eastern and Southern Africa (TRAHESA (TAN-13/0027)