The University of Stirling has secured £2.4 million for a major international project to tackle antimicrobial resistance (AMR) in Vietnam’s pangasius catfish industry.
Professor Margaret Crumlish, principal investigator for the study
Led by professor Margaret Crumlish from Stirling’s Institute of Aquaculture, the study will bring together experts from a diverse range of fields to develop practical alternatives to antibiotic use.
Running for four years, the transdisciplinary study will explore how antimicrobial resistance develops in freshwater environments and affects aquaculture production. It will also examine the barriers to adopting alternatives to antibiotics. Researchers will work with farmers to develop a roadmap for future research, aimed at identifying practical ways to tackle antimicrobial resistance in freshwater aquaculture.
“Aquatic environments play an important role in the development and transmission of antimicrobial resistance, and aquaculture both depends on and interacts with these ecosystems,” said Crumlish in a press release.
“By focusing on Vietnam’s pangasius catfish sector, one of the world’s most important freshwater aquaculture industries, we have an ideal opportunity to understand how antimicrobial resistance develops, how it impacts production, and how more sustainable approaches to disease management can be achieved.
“When antibiotics stop working effectively in aquaculture, particularly in freshwater systems in South East Asia, farmers often have few alternatives, but they trust antibiotic products, even if they are not effective.”
“By co-creating solutions with farmers, policymakers, industry leaders and other stakeholders over the next 48 months, we aim to ensure that any interventions are both scientifically robust and practical to implement.”
The study builds on previous fish vaccine research, including a recent trial at Stirling’s National Aquaculture Technology and Innovation Hub. Data from these studies will inform work with stakeholders to identify viable solutions and improve antibiotic stewardship in freshwater aquaculture.
The work will be carried out in partnership with the University of Glasgow, University of Sydney, Can Tho University and Vietnam National University.
The grant forms part of a wider investment of more than £54 million in 18 research and innovation projects coordinated through UK Research and Innovation (UKRI). The programme aims to prepare for future epidemics, tackle AMR and support the development of next-generation animal vaccines, with co-funding from government departments including Defra, the Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office and the Department of Health and Social Care.
