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Updated: Jul 15, 2026
08:58
Isolation and Identification of Waterborne Antibiotic-Resistant Bacteria and Molecular Characterization of their Antibiotic Resistance Genes
Published on: March 3, 2023
Thirteen-lined ground squirrels (Spermophilus tridecemlineatus) harbor multiantibiotic-resistant bacteria
Karen A Cloud-Hansen1, Katrina M Villiard, Jo Handelsman
1Department of Plant Pathology, School of Veterinary Medicine, University of Wisconsin, Madison, WI, USA.
Summary
Antibiotic-resistant bacteria, including Morganella morganii and Stenotrophomonas maltophilia, were found in wild-caught thirteen-lined ground squirrels. This highlights potential risks for researchers and other animals in laboratory settings.
Area of Science:
- Microbiology
- Veterinary Science
- Animal Research
Background:
- Antibiotic resistance in wild animals used for research is understudied.
- Thirteen-lined ground squirrels are common models for hibernation research.
- Pathogenic bacteria in these animals pose risks to handlers and other lab animals.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the presence of antibiotic-resistant bacteria in thirteen-lined ground squirrels.
- To assess potential risks associated with using these wild-caught animals in biomedical research.
Main Methods:
- Isolation and identification of bacteria from the ceca of thirteen-lined ground squirrels.
- Antimicrobial susceptibility testing for isolated bacterial strains.
Main Results:
- Tetracycline- and chloramphenicol-resistant Morganella morganii were identified.
- Multidrug-resistant Stenotrophomonas maltophilia was also isolated.
- These resistant bacteria were found in four of the studied ground squirrels.
Conclusions:
- Wild-caught thirteen-lined ground squirrels can harbor antibiotic-resistant bacteria.
- Further research is needed to understand the prevalence and implications of these resistant populations.
- Findings suggest careful consideration for using wild-caught mammals in research settings.
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