Molecular Characterization and Antibiotic Susceptibility of Bacteria Associated with Cassava Farmlands from Igbariam Rural Communities in Anambra State, Nigeria

AFUNWA, Ruth Asikiya and Olisaka, Frances N. and Igboamazu, Ekenedilichukwu Godson and Ikezuagu, Mmesoma Vivian and Nwofia, Martin Chukwunonso and Onwukwe, Philip Chibuikem and Gbadamosi, F. A. (2025) Molecular Characterization and Antibiotic Susceptibility of Bacteria Associated with Cassava Farmlands from Igbariam Rural Communities in Anambra State, Nigeria. African Journal of Life Sciences Research, 1 (1). pp. 9-36. ISSN 2978-3496

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Abstract

Cassava (Manihot esculenta Crantz) is a key staple crop for millions of people worldwide, particularly in tropical and subtropical regions. It is well-known for its ability to thrive in poor soil and drought conditions, making it a vital resource for food security especially in third world nations. However, the economic viability of cassava farming is frequently threatened by microbial pathogens that lead to diseases like cassava bacteria blight and root rot. The aim of this study is to carry out molecular characterization and antibiotic characterization of bacteria associated with cassava tubers in the rural communities at Igbariam, Anambra state, Nigeria. Cassava tubers were collected from five different farmlands and were processed by fermentation. The fermented cassava tubers were cultured in MacConkey, cetrimide, and mannitol salt agars. The isolates were identified by their morphological features, biochemical tests, DNA analysis and sequencing. Antibiotic susceptibility testing was performed on Mueller-Hinton agar after standardizing to 0.5 McFarland standard. The diameter of the zones of inhibition was measured (in mm) after incubation and the results interpreted by EUCAST charts. A total of 42 isolates comprising Alcaligenes faecalis (14) 33.3%, Pseudomonas aeruginosa (13) 30.95% and Pseudomonas putida (15) 35.71% were identified. The isolates were resistant to cefixime, nitrofurantoin, ampicillin, amoxicillinclavulanate, ceftriaxone, imipenem, and cefuroxime. The isolates showed sensitivity to gentamicin, azithromycin, ofloxacin and levofloxacin. The findings contribute to the understanding of some microorganisms that make up the microbiome associated with cassava tubers. By studying these bacteria, beneficial microorganisms that promote plant health, enhance nutrient uptake, or provide natural resistance against pathogens can be identified.

Item Type: Article
Subjects: Q Science > QR Microbiology
Divisions: Faculty of Natural and Applied Sciences
Depositing User: Uchenna Eneogwe
Date Deposited: 27 Aug 2025 13:27
Last Modified: 27 Aug 2025 13:27
URI: http://eprints.gouni.edu.ng/id/eprint/5330

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