Phenotypic Characterization of Burkholderia Pseudomallei Isolates In Fishes In FCT, Abuja Using MicrobactTM GNB 24E Identification Test Kit System

The study was carried out to determine the phenotypic characters of Burkholderia pseudomallei isolates from fresh water fishes sold in FCT using culture, isolation and complete biochemical identification followed by confirmation with MicrobactTM GNB24E identification system. Out of a total number of about 400 samples collected from different fishes (257 from Tilapia zillii, 77 from Clarias gariepinus, 58 from Lates niloticus, and 8 from Alestes nurse). Biochemical characterization revealed that 40 isolates were confirmed as Burkholderia pseudomallei. All the isolates (100 %) were positive to, catalase, hydrogen sulphide, voges proskauer and motility tests others showed varying percentage of reactions to other biochemical tests. The isolates were then subjected to confirmatory test using the MicrobactTM GNB 24E kit which revealed that 25 isolates were Burkholderia pseudomallei. The results were subjected to descriptive statistics using percentages, ratios and tables. Burkholderia pseudomallei isolated had an overall prevalence rate of 6.25 %. The prevalence rate among fishes were Alestes nurse (50 %), Lates niloticus (11.11%) and Tilapia zillii (7.60%). Based on spread in various areas in Federal Capital Territory (FCT) , Burkholderia pseudomallei was higher in Bwari (8.75 %), followed by Gwagwalada with 8.33% and lower in AMAC (5.34%). This research is the first to expose Burkholderia pseudomallei from fishes in Gwagwalada. There is need for radical studies on this organism in other to determine its role as a biological chemical weapon in Nigeria.