INCIDENCE OF GRAM-POSITIVE BACTERIA ON SELECTED TABLES OF FRESHWATER FISH SELLERS IN OKITIPUPA

This study is aim to investigate the bacterial contamination of freshwater fish-seller tables in Okitipupa, Ondo State. Swab samples collected from multiple market table were cultured on selective media, and resultant colonies were subjected to Gram staining, morphological observation, and biochemical tests. These results revealed that the majority of isolates (A, C, and E) showed “buttery” surface textures and irregular shapes, while isolates B and D displayed mucoid surfaces. Results revealed the bacterial counts which showed that three of the five samples (A, C, and E) yielded too numerous to count (TNTC) colonies, while the remaining two samples (B and D) presented moderate bacterial counts 50 × 10-3 and 70 × 10-3 CFU/g respectively while the least bacterial counts was showed in samples C and E which was presented as 30 × 10-5 and 25 × 10-5 CFU/g respectively on nutrient agar plates. The biochemical characterization showed that all isolates were Gram-positive by the Gram staining procedure, although two were described as short rods (isolate B) and three as cocci (A, C, D, E). Catalase testing revealed that all but isolate C were catalase-positive. Sugar fermentation patterns varied: all isolates fermented glucose, while sucrose fermentation was absent in C and D, and lactose fermentation occurred only in C, D, and E. The predominance of human- and environment-associated bacteria on fish-selling surfaces points to inadequate sanitation and poor handling practices, raising potential public health concerns. Based on the findings, it is recommended that regular training programs for fish sellers and market workers on proper hygiene practices, including handwashing, use of gloves, and avoidance of direct hand contact with fish surfaces.