Ecosystem response to human, veterinary and growth promoting antibiotics in the aquatic environment. The objective of this study is to assess the threat to Australian aquatic ecosystems by antibiotics excreted and/or discarded through human activities each year. Specifically this study aims to: 1) Determine types of antibiotics, concentrations and distribution in surface waters downstream from potential sources; 2) Investigate bacterial resistance and bacterial community changes to antibiotic c ....Ecosystem response to human, veterinary and growth promoting antibiotics in the aquatic environment. The objective of this study is to assess the threat to Australian aquatic ecosystems by antibiotics excreted and/or discarded through human activities each year. Specifically this study aims to: 1) Determine types of antibiotics, concentrations and distribution in surface waters downstream from potential sources; 2) Investigate bacterial resistance and bacterial community changes to antibiotic compounds entering the aquatic environment; 3) Determine the influence of antibiotics on key ecological processes performed by bacteria - e.g. nitrogen cycle; 4) Assess effect on, and efficiency of, various effluent treatments in removing antibiotics and direct improvements for future removal.Read moreRead less