Abstract
Background: Tilapia aquaculture in Sampaloc Lake significantly contributes to the livelihood and food security of the communities in San Pablo City, Laguna. Early detection of pathogens and antibiotic-resistant bacteria that could potentially affect tilapia production and the health of the consumers is essential to avoid outbreak of infections. Methods: The study identified 16 selected bacterial strains from tilapia fish in Sampaloc Lake through a polyphasic taxonomic approach in bacterial identification. Results: The bacterial strains are Gram-negative, aerobic, non-fermentative bacteria, and most produce fluorescent green pigment. Through 16S rRNA gene sequencing, they were identified as Pseudomonas species, particularly P. entomophila (n=2), P. guariconensis (n=3), P. mosselii (n=6), P. oryzihabitans (n=1) P. soli (n=2) and P. wadenswilerensis (n=2). They all exhibited resistance against Ceftazidime (30μg) and most were resistant to about two to four out of the eight antibiotics tested through the Kirby-Bauer disk diffusion method. Pseudomonas mosselii were described as a fish pathogen; thus, the addition of their antibiotic resistance could serve as threat in Tilapia aquaculture. Conclusion: The result of the study could facilitate the formulation of evidence-based mitigating measures and policies aimed at safeguarding public health ensuring the socio-economic stability of Sampaloc Lake, including its resources.
Keywords
AMR, Pseudomonas, Pathogen, Food safety