Distribution and Management of Residual Antibiotics in the Litopenaeus vannamei Shrimp Farming Environment: Recommendations for Effective Control

Abstract

This study specifically focused on Litopenaeus vannamei and examined the distribution of residual antibiotics in various components of shrimp ponds throughout an aquaculture cycle. The findings revealed that aquaculture feed served as the primary source of antibiotics, continuously introducing them into the ponds throughout the entire production cycle. A multimedia distribution model for antibiotics in the ponds was established based on the principle of mass balance. The distribution characteristics of six antibiotics with higher levels in the feed, namely, sulfamethoxazole (SMX), norfloxacin (NOF), levofloxacin (LEOF), tetracycline (TC), oxytetracycline (OTC), and chlortetracycline (CTC), were investigated in the pond water, sediment, and shrimp. At the end of the cultivation period, the total antibiotic residues accounted for 65~80% in various media, with the sediment containing 50~60% of the distribution proportion (p < 0.01), which was identified as the primary reservoir for most antibiotics, with LEOF and NOF accounting for the highest proportions (45.78% and 50.29%, respectively). Based on the model’s findings and the allowable daily dosage of antibiotics, recommendations were made for the effective control of antibiotic residues in shrimp farming management. To address the significant net loss of sulfonamides (SAs) and tetracyclines (TCs) in aquaculture production, it is crucial to carefully regulate their dosages and administration methods. Implementing eco-friendly additives and regularly cleaning surface sediments can aid in reducing antibiotic residue levels in various environmental media, thereby mitigating the environmental impact on aquaculture production activities.