POTENSI EKSTRAK DAUN KEJI BELING (SERICOCALYX CRISPUS) SEBAGAI AGEN ANTIMIKROBA TERHADAP PERTUMBUHAN BAKTERI EDWARDSIELLA TARDA PADA IKAN

Abstract

This study explores the potential of keji beling (Sericocalyx crispus) leaf extract as an antimicrobial agent against Edwardsiella tarda bacteria in fish, which is known to be an important pathogen in aquaculture. With increasing antibiotic resistance, the search for natural alternatives is becoming increasingly relevant. Active compounds in keji beling leaves, such as flavonoids and tannins, showed effectiveness in inhibiting the growth of E. tarda, a gram-negative bacterium that often causes infections in fish and can incur significant economic losses. Through laboratory tests, these extracts showed strong antimicrobial activity with potential as an alternative to antibiotics in fish disease control. These findings support a more environmentally friendly management approach in aquaculture and could potentially improve the sustainability of the fishing industry. Further research is needed to identify the mechanism of action of these active compounds and ensure their safety and effectiveness on an industrial scale.