Rose, J. M., Woods Hole Oceanographic Insti, Woods Hole, USA, jrose@whoi.edu
Bogomolni, A. ., Woods Hole Oceanographic Institution, Woods Hole, USA, andreab@whoi.edu
Gast, R. J., Woods Hole Oceanographic Institution, Woods Hole, USA, rgast@whoi.edu
Ellis, J. C., SEANET, Tufts Cummings School of Veterinary Medicine, Grafton, USA, Julie.Ellis@tufts.edu
Pokras, M. A., Wildlife Clinic, Tufts Cummings School of Veterinary Medicine, Grafton, USA,
Moore, M. ., Woods Hole Oceanographic Institution, Woods Hole, USA, mmoore@whoi.edu

PATTERNS OF ANTIBIOTIC RESISTANCE IN NORTHEASTERN COASTAL VERTEBRATES

The prevalence of antibiotic-resistant bacteria in the marine environment is a significant human health concern, but the degree to which marine mammals, seabirds and sharks harbor these organisms is not well documented. This project sought to identify the patterns of antibiotic resistance in vertebrates from coastal waters of the northeastern United States. 1152 bacteria were isolated from tissues and fecal material of 157 vertebrates. Bacteria of clinical interest comprised 50% of organisms isolated. 380 isolates were tested for resistance to a suite of 16 antibiotics. Sixty percent were resistant to at least one antibiotic, while 46% were resistant to multiple antibiotics. A multiple antibiotic resistance (MAR) index value greater than 0.2 was observed in 40% of the resistant pathogens, suggesting exposure of the animals to significantly contaminated sites. Groups of antibiotics with commonly co-occurring resistance were identified. Structuring of resistance patterns based on sample type (live/stranded/bycaught) but not animal group (mammal/bird/shark) was observed. Antibiotic resistant bacteria were widespread in marine vertebrates, geographically and taxonomically, and illustrated a potential linkage between human and animal health.

Oral presentation

Presentation is given by student: No
Session #:120
Date: 03-03-2008
Time: 09:30