Journal of Environmental Biology

Unveiling antibiotic resistance and metabolic traits in potential pathogens isolated from Al-asfar Lake

A.A. Mousa¹, S.N. Al-kadi^1,2 and A. Khalifa¹*     

¹Biological Science Department, College of Science, King Faisal University, Al-Ahsa, 31982, Saudi Arabia

²Halima Al-Sadia School, Al-Ahsa, 31982, Saudi Arabia

Received: 21 November 2025                   Revised: 03 March 2026                   Accepted: 17 April 2026

*Corresponding Author Email: akhalifa@kfu.edu.sa                  *ORCiD: https://orcid.org/0000-0003-4272-929X

Abstract

Aim: The aim of this study was to evaluate the antibiotic resistance patterns and metabolic properties of bacteria obtained from Al-Asfar Lake in order to better understand their microbial diversity and possible public health implications.

Methodology: Water samples were collected in sterile containers and processed using serial dilution and culture-based techniques to isolate bacterial strains. Two representative isolates were selected and identified according to their colony morphology and 16S rRNA gene sequencing results. Their hemolytic behavior and biochemical characteristics were further examined using conventional laboratory assays and VITEK analysis.

Results: The two isolates, ALW1 and ALW2, showed high similarity to Staphylococcus hominis (99.1%) and Paenibacillus tyraminigenes (98.7%), respectively. ALW2 demonstrated beta-hemolytic activity, was able to metabolize a wide range of carbohydrates, and exhibited resistance to bacitracin and polymyxin B. In contrast, ALW1 showed alpha-hemolytic activity, had a more limited metabolic profile, and did not display detectable antibiotic resistance. Both isolates were positive for catalase activity.

Interpretation: The findings indicate that Al-Asfar Lake harbors metabolically diverse bacterial populations, some of which may carry antibiotic resistance traits. Regular monitoring of freshwater ecosystems is therefore important to reduce the potential spread of resistant bacteria and protect public health. These results also contribute to a better understanding of microbial ecology and the possible risks associated with environmental bacterial communities.

Key words: Al-Asfar Lake, Hemolysis, Pathogenic bacteria, Paenibacillus tyraminigenes, Staphylococcus hominis, VITEK analysis

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