The antibacterial activity of kersen leaves (Muntingia Calabura) extracts against Aeromonas Hydrophilia; in vitro study

Background: Aeromonas hydrophila is one of opportunistic bacteria that capable causing disease in fresh water fishes. The outbreak of diseases in fresh water fishes become an important issue in fish farming. Antibiotics can be used as therapy for those problems. But the usage of antibiotics can cause the bacterial resistance and side effects of medications. The usage of antibiotics in fish farming also can trigger the water polution. Objective: The aim of this study was to observe the antibacterial activity of kersen leaves Muntingia calabura extracts against A. hydrophila with in vitro study and to determine the minimum concentration the extracts that inhibit the bacterial growth and its ability to kill the bacteria. Method: There was nine group consisted the extracts with various concentration, as 50%, 25%, 12,5%, 6,25%, 3,12%, 1,56%, 0,78%, positive control group with chloramphenicol, and negative control group with dimethyl sulfoxide (DMSO) 10%. Those extract was soaked in bacterial culture and incubated for 24 hours. Result: The young kersen leaves extracts had stronger antibacterial activity against A. hydrophila, compared to the old kersen leaves. Minimum Inhibition Concentration (MIC) of the extracts was at concentration of 50% and Minimum Bactericidal Concentration (MBC) was at concentration of 12,5%. Conclusion: Kersen leaves extract has antibacterial activity against A. Hydrophila by in vitro study.