A recent study in Environmental Science and Technology highlights the role of European honeybees (Apis mellifera) as effective biomonitoring agents for detecting antimicrobial resistance (AMR) in urban areas. Honeybees carry genetic elements related to AMR drivers in their digestive tracts, making them ideal indicators of pollution and AMR risks. AMR poses a grave global health threat, rendering treatments ineffective. Surprisingly, the study found AMR elements in various areas, challenging prior assumptions. Bees’ short lifespan allows real-time monitoring. This research emphasizes the interconnection between the environment, human health, and pollinators, suggesting holistic approaches for addressing AMR and involving citizen-scientists in monitoring efforts.
Facts/Terms for UPSC Prelims
- Antimicrobial Resistance (AMR): AMR refers to the ability of bacteria and microbes to resist drugs, making common treatments ineffective. It poses a significant global health threat.
- Biomonitoring: Biomonitoring involves using living organisms, like honeybees in this study, to assess environmental conditions and detect contaminants or genetic elements associated with specific issues, such as AMR.
- Integrons: Integrons are genetic elements that can capture and express genes, including those related to antimicrobial resistance. They play a role in the spread of resistance genes among bacteria.
- Citizen-Scientist Beekeepers: Citizen-scientist beekeepers are individuals in the community who engage in scientific activities, such as monitoring honeybee populations. They can contribute valuable data to research efforts.
