The use of antibiotics in Litopenaeus vannamei aquaculture is a common practice for managing bacterial diseases for enhancing shrimp growth and survival. However, the indiscriminate and prolonged use of antibiotics may be hazardous to human health and aquatic ecosystem as well as the well-being of the shrimp. Antibiotic resistance develops in bacterial populations, with resistant genes potentially transferring to human pathogens through the food chain, reducing treatment effectiveness and endangering public health. Sub-lethal doses also disrupt shrimp gut microbiota, impairing immunity, digestion and nutrient absorption. The environment is also seriously impacted because the pond water and sediments hold antibiotic residues and disrupt microbial diversity and develops resistant strains to grow. The residues can be spread in nearby ecosystems harmful to non-target organisms and destabilizing the ecological balance. Residual antibiotics in shrimp create food safety problems which cause trade restrictions in international markets. To alleviate these risks, the sustainable practices such as biosecurity measures, immunostimulants, and probiotics are the most effective alternatives to antibiotics. These approaches serve to safeguard shrimp health, while also preventing damage to the environment and ensuring public health. Government has to be responsible for setting standards for the controlled use of antibiotics. The integration of these sustainable practices will guarantee the long-term viability of shrimp farming, protect aquatic ecosystems, and maintain food safety standards.
Keywords: Shrimp culture, Antibiotic residues, Food safety, Sustainable aquaculture practices.