In silico characterization of Edwardsiella tarda strain ET-1 isolated from aquarium water reveals zoonotic and pathogenic potential
Abstract
Edwardsiella tarda is a facultatively anaerobic, Gram-negative bacterium that is widely distributed in aquatic environments. With the increasing interactions between aquatic animals and humans, E. tarda has become an important pathogen with significant implications for global public health. In this study, we characterized strain ET-1, isolated from an aquarium housing Pangasius pangasius, to evaluate its ecological presence, antimicrobial resistance, and pathogenic potential using a combination of phenotypic and genome-based approaches. Biochemical characteristics were determined using the API 20E system. Antimicrobial susceptibility was evaluated using MIC testing to determine resistance to clinically relevant antibiotics. Whole-genome sequencing using Oxford Nanopore Technologies revealed a genome size of 3.76 Mb with a GC content of 57.12%. Genome-based identification using digital DNA–DNA hybridization (dDDH, 86.6%) confirmed the classification as E. tarda. Several virulence-associated genes (flgG – flagellar basal body-rod protein; etfC – electron transfer flavoprotein subunit C) and antimicrobial resistance determinants (qnrS1 – quinolone resistance protein S1; efflux pump genes such as kpnH and kpnF) were identified. Pathogenic potential analysis via PathogenFinder2 indicated a high likelihood of human pathogenicity. Additionally, 16S rRNA-based profiling revealed the widespread environmental and host-associated presence of ET-1-like sequences. These results underscore the zoonotic and environmental significance of E. tarda ET-1 and support its relevance for public health surveillance within the One Health framework.
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References
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Details
Primary Language
English
Subjects
Veterinary Microbiology
Journal Section
Research Article
Authors
Nihed Ajmi
0000-0002-5368-4819
Türkiye
Esra Demirbaş
0000-0002-3708-0804
Türkiye
Cansu Aktaş
0000-0003-3869-870X
Türkiye
Ertan Emek Onuk
*
0000-0001-7643-046X
Türkiye
Early Pub Date
December 2, 2025
Publication Date
April 1, 2026
Submission Date
July 22, 2025
Acceptance Date
November 19, 2025
Published in Issue
Year 2026 Volume: 73 Number: 2