Abstract

 Antibiotic resistance has become a critical issue in global health, with implications extending to marine environments, particularly in regions with intensive aquaculture activities. This abstract examines the prevalence and distribution of antibiotic resistance in marine fish farming areas in Hainan, China. The extensive use of antibiotics in aquaculture practices has led to alarming rates of antibiotic resistance among bacteria in water, sediments, and farmed fish. Factors contributing to this phenomenon include prophylactic antibiotic use, suboptimal farming practices, and inadequate wastewater treatment. The environmental implications of antibiotic resistance include disruptions to microbial communities and the dissemination of resistance genes. Moreover, there are significant public healthconcerns regarding the transmission of antibiotic-resistant pathogens through seafood consumption and environmentalpathways. Mitigation strategies involving regulation of antibiotic use, sustainable aquaculture practices, and investment in wastewater treatment infrastructure are crucial for addressing this pressing issue. By implementing these measures, stakeholders can work towards preserving the health of marine ecosystems and human populations in Hainan and beyond.