Antibiotic efficacy and biochemical composition of ascidian, Phallusia nigra (Savigny, 1816) from the Palk bay, Southeast coast of India

Abstract

An investigation was held out to examine the biochemical constituents present in the simple ascidian Phallusia nigra (P. nigra), such as protein, carbohydrate, lipids, moisture, acidity and ash content. Extractions of P. nigra (visceral) tissue sample in several solvents were assayed for antibacterial activity against foodborne pathogens. Protein content was found to be higher during the summer season in P. nigra, while the minimum quantity of lipid was recorded during monsoon season. Benzene and acetonitrile crude extracts inhibited the growth of foodborne pathogens. Chloroform extract didn't inhibit any strains.