Exploration of Phyllosphere Bacteria From Andaliman (Zanthoxylum acanthopodium DC.)

Abstract

Phyllosphere bacteria were bacteria that inhabit around the leaf surface. Several studies showed the potential of phyllosphere bacteria in producing bioactive compounds, one of which is antimicrobial compounds. Andaliman (Zanthoxylum acanthopodium DC.) was a plant from the Rutaceae family that was commonly found in North Sumatra, and its fruit was widely used as a spice in traditional cooking by the Batak tribe. Several studies showed that the andaliman terpenoid has antioxidant and antimicrobial activity and an immunostimulating effect. This study aimed to explore the potential of andaliman phyllosphere bacteria. The research design method was a qualitative experimental model. The research stages used in compiling this paper consisted of phyllosphere bacteria isolation, phyllosphere bacteria morphological characterization, and Gram stain. This study succeeded in isolating 206 colonies of andaliman phyllosphere bacteria with various colony forms and cell morphology. From 64 samples of phyllosphere bacterial isolate observed, we found 25 different colony forms, and all samples were Gram-positive bacteria. Microscopic observations of gram staining showed that 44 isolates (68.75%) were cocci, 17 isolates (26.56%) were in the form of bacillus, and three isolates (4.68%) were in the form of coccobacillus.