Amoebae in Mumbai Creek hide superbugs

A recent study involving IIT Bombay has revealed that free-living amoebae in Mumbai’s Vashi Creek are carrying bacteria with alarmingly high levels of antimicrobial resistance (AMR). The findings show that these microscopic organisms are acting like hidden carriers, sheltering dangerous, multidrug-resistant bacteria that often go undetected in regular environmental checks.

Researchers found that nearly half of the bacteria living inside the amoebae were resistant to four or more antibiotics. Even more concerning, 22 percent showed resistance to six or more drugs. By comparison, such extreme resistance was almost absent in bacteria found directly in the surrounding sediment.

Scientists describe amoebae as potential “sentinel indicators” because they can reveal the early rise of resistance in natural ecosystems. Their ability to shield and transport harmful bacteria even into sensitive areas like hospitals and water systems, makes them an underestimated player in the global AMR crisis.

Experts warn that existing surveillance systems may be missing these hidden reservoirs, giving a false sense of environmental safety. The findings highlight the urgent need to integrate such microbial hosts into AMR monitoring, especially as drug-resistant infections already contribute to millions of deaths worldwide each year.

Researchers believe this approach supports the One Health vision, which emphasises a balanced relationship between human, animal and environmental health. The team hopes the insights will guide environmental authorities, public-health planners and wastewater-management bodies in designing stronger strategies to track and limit the spread of superbugs.