Genetic background of CTX-M-15-producing Enterobacter hormaechei ST114 and Citrobacter freundii ST265 co-infecting a free-living green turtle (Chelonia mydas).

Abstract

CTX-M-type extended-spectrum β-lactamase (ESBL)-producing Enterobacteriaceae have become identified in marine ecosystem constituting a serious ecological issue. In this respect, although contamination of coastal waters and seafood, and even colonization of seabirds and fishes have been increasingly reported, molecular data are lacking to elucidate the clinical impact of ESBL producers in infected marine animals. In this study, using a genomic approach, we have analysed the genetic background of CTX-M-15-producing Enterobacter hormaechei (belonging to the international human clone ST114) and Citrobacter freundii (ST265) co-infecting a free-living green turtle (Chelonia mydas) suffering from septic arthritis, which progressed to generalized coelomitis and death. Wide resistome of these pathogens contributed to treatment failure and death of the animal.