Abstract:
Antimicrobial Resistance (AMR) is a critical global challenge at the interface of human, animal, and environmental health, and aquaculture is increasingly recognized as a key sector within the One Health framework. The intensification of aquaculture systems worldwide, often without proportional investments in health infrastructure, biosecurity, and disease prevention, has resulted in recurrent disease outbreaks and a growing dependence on antimicrobial agents. This has accelerated the emergence and dissemination of resistant bacterial strains, posing risks not only to aquatic animal health and productivity but also to food safety and public health.
Despite global recognition of AMR as a priority, effective surveillance and targeted intervention in aquaculture remain limited, particularly in low- and middle-income production systems. In this context, biosecurity represents a foundational and cost-effective strategy for AMR mitigation. Biosecurity is an integrated approach encompassing regulatory frameworks, risk assessment, and on-farm management practices designed to prevent the introduction, establishment, and spread of pathogens through critical pathways such as seed movement, water sources, farm inputs, equipment, and human activities.
Evidence increasingly demonstrates that weak biosecurity amplifies stress, compromises immunity, and increases disease susceptibility, leading to reactive and often excessive antimicrobial use. In contrast, preventive biosecurity—embedded within Good Management Practices (GMP) — reduces disease incidence, minimizes antimicrobial dependency, and enhances system resilience. Importantly, prevention-based approaches are economically viable and environmentally sustainable, aligning with global goals for responsible aquaculture development.
This presentation synthesizes current scientific evidence and field-based experience to highlight practical pathways for integrating biosecurity into routine aquaculture management as a primary tool for AMR containment. The talk emphasizes the need to reposition biosecurity from a compliance-driven concept to a central pillar of sustainable aquaculture, supporting global AMR action plans and One Health objectives.
Biography:
Dr. K. Pani Prasad, presently Professor and Research Coordinator at Andhra Pradesh Fisheries University, Andhra Pradesh, India and former Dean (ER) at CIFE, Mumbai, is a distinguished scientist and educator with over 35 years of expertise in aquatic animal health. He has made significant strides in the development of advanced disease diagnostics and control measures, particularly for fish and shrimp, and is a recognized authority on antimicrobial resistance. His broad career has spanned roles as a researcher, professor, scientist, extension worker, and administrator, where he has continually driven innovation and excellence in the field.
Dr. Prasad is particularly known for his pioneering work in creating immunodiagnostic kits, which enable rapid and precise detection of diseases in aquaculture. His expertise has made a lasting impact in the fight against antimicrobial resistance, an urgent challenge in modern aquaculture. Beyond his research, Dr. Pani Prasad has contributed his knowledge and leadership to international and national projects. He has served as a National Consultant for esteemed organizations, including the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) and the Department of Fisheries, Government of Andhra Pradesh, where he helped enhance quality control in shrimp hatcheries and laboratories.
His research portfolio is impressive, with more than 170 publications in top-tier, peer reviewed journals. As a Principal Investigator, he has led numerous externally funded projects, including those supported by the Department of Biotechnology and the National Fisheries Development Board. These initiatives focus on aquatic disease surveillance, fish health networking, and tackling antimicrobial resistance within the fisheries and aquaculture sectors across India.
Dr. Pani Prasad's mentorship has shaped the next generation of fisheries experts. He has guided 15 Ph.D. students and 68 Master's students, helping them explore vital aspects of health management in aquaculture. In addition to his academic contributions, he has conducted over 22 training programs for farmers, researchers, and students, addressing crucial topics such as disease diagnostics and antimicrobial resistance.
Through his extensive research, leadership, and dedication, Dr. Prasad has made transformative contributions to the field of aquatic animal health, significantly advancing sustainable practices in fisheries and aquaculture.
