Journal of Geoscience and Eco Agricultural Studies

Abstract

Antimicrobial resistance is an increasing agricultural and environmental challenge affecting livestock production, crop systems, soil quality, irrigation water, food safety, and sustainable farming. Agricultural environments can receive resistant bacteria and antimicrobial-resistance genes through manure, wastewater, contaminated irrigation water, biosolids, and inappropriate antimicrobial use. Once introduced into soil and water, resistant microorganisms may persist, interact with indigenous microbial communities, and potentially disseminate resistance determinants through horizontal gene transfer. The agricultural significance of environmental resistance is particularly important because food-producing systems connect environmental reservoirs with livestock, crops, farm workers, consumers, and downstream ecosystems. This review examines the major sources, environmental pathways, agricultural consequences, molecular surveillance approaches, and management strategies associated with antimicrobial resistance. Particular attention is given to β-lactamase-producing bacteria, agricultural water, soil–plant interactions, manure management, nanotechnology, and One Health surveillance. Sustainable antimicrobial stewardship, improved farm hygiene, responsible manure application, water-quality monitoring, and integrated molecular surveillance are essential for protecting agricultural productivity and food security.