Transmission of antibiotic resistance through organic amendments in arable land: A 3-year field study with pigeonpea–wheat cropping system

Antimicrobial resistance (AMR) is a growing concern worldwide, and organic amendments in agriculture, such as manure and plant residues, can restore soil properties and provide essential nutrients. However, these amendments also carry antibiotic resistance genes, highlighting the need for vigilant monitoring and strategic interventions. A three-year field experiment with pigeonpea-wheat cropping systems revealed that manure amendments, particularly FYM1, had a higher abundance of ARGs compared to rhizospheric soil. Organic farming was associated with higher ARGs, while conventional farming increased sul2 and ermB genes. The prevalence of ARGs linked to manure amendments highlights the need for responsible management practices.