The European livestock resistome

Metagenomic sequencing is a valuable tool for monitoring antimicrobial resistance (AMR) in pigs, poultry, veal calves, turkey, and rainbow trout across nine European countries. The study found that per-farm management practices and antimicrobial usage (AMU) affect resistome diversity in these animals. The study also found associations between bacterial diversity, resistome diversity, and AMR abundances, as well as co-occurrence analysis of bacterial taxa and antimicrobial resistance genes (ARGs). The study also found that dispersal limitations of ARGs shape livestock resistomes, suggesting future efforts should focus on biosecurity measures. Understanding the occurrence, diversity, and drivers of AMR is crucial for future control efforts.