Exploring the Potentiality of Vermibiochar as an Earthworm-Biochar Synergy for the Reduction of Antibiotic Resistance Genes in Soil Ecosystems
摘要
Antibiotic resistance genes (ARGs) are pervasive environmental pollutants, that detrimentally impact soil health. The widespread use of antibiotics in both medical and livestock practices accelerates the spread of antibiotic-resistant bacteria (ARB) and antibiotic resistance genes (ARGs) in soil. This poses a serious threat to soil microbial communities and can adversely affect plant and animal growth. Antibiotic residues foster the establishment of ARGs in the environment, emphasizing the importance of biodegradation in mitigating antibiotic effects. Although earthworms are known to facilitate the movement of bacteria and antibiotic-resistance genes (ARGs) through soil layers, a comprehensive understanding of their gut microbiota and its relationship with these resistance genes remains limited. Vermibiochar, a synergistic soil amendment combining biochar and vermicompost, enhances microbial activity, improves soil structure, increases nutrient availability and carbon sequestration, and helps reduce antibiotic-resistance genes (ARGs) in soil ecosystems. This study outlines the enhanced interaction between earthworms and biochar in ARG remediation, building on existing knowledge and offering insights into new strategies for mitigating antibiotic resistance in soils. It also highlights the practical challenges associated with applying this approach in real-world conditions, while emphasizing its potential to reduce ARGs and improve overall soil health.