Impact of Carbon–to–Nitrogen Ratio and Temperature on Antibiotic-Resistant E. coli During Anaerobic Digestion of Chicken Manure

Introduction

Anaerobic digestion is increasingly adopted for managing poultry manure due to its potential for energy recovery and nutrient recycling. However, the persistence of antibiotic-resistant and non-resistant Escherichia coli during the process raises concerns regarding environmental safety and public health. Understanding how operational parameters such as carbon–to–nitrogen ratio and temperature affect bacterial survival is essential for optimizing digestion efficiency while minimizing microbial risks.

Role of Carbon–to–Nitrogen Ratio in Microbial Survival

The carbon–to–nitrogen ratio plays a crucial role in regulating microbial metabolism during anaerobic digestion. Imbalanced C:N ratios can limit microbial activity or create stress conditions that influence pathogen persistence. This topic examines how optimal and sub-optimal C:N ratios affect the survival dynamics of resistant and non-resistant E. coli in chicken manure systems.

Temperature Effects on Antibiotic-Resistant and Non-Resistant E. coli

Temperature is a key determinant of pathogen inactivation during anaerobic digestion. Mesophilic and thermophilic conditions exert different levels of thermal stress on microbial populations. This section discusses how temperature regimes impact the survival, adaptation, and reduction efficiency of antibiotic-resistant versus non-resistant E. coli.

Interaction Between C:N Ratio and Temperature

The combined influence of carbon–to–nitrogen ratio and temperature can significantly alter digestion performance and microbial fate. This topic explores synergistic and antagonistic interactions between these parameters, highlighting how their optimization enhances pathogen reduction while maintaining stable anaerobic digestion processes.

Implications for Environmental and Public Health Safety

The persistence of antibiotic-resistant bacteria in digested manure poses risks to soil, water, and food safety. This section addresses the potential pathways of environmental dissemination and evaluates how improved digestion conditions can reduce the spread of antimicrobial resistance from agricultural waste streams.

Future Research Directions and Sustainable Applications

Further research is needed to refine anaerobic digestion strategies that effectively control antibiotic-resistant microorganisms. This topic outlines future research priorities, including advanced process control, microbial monitoring, and integrated waste management approaches to support sustainable agriculture and circular bioeconomy goals.

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