Inhibition of Microbial Growth by Eelgrass Extracts

Eelgrass extracts from Zostera marina and Zostera japonica were tested against bacterial isolates for antibacterial activity. Bacterial isolates that exhibited sensitivity to the eelgrass extracts were also tested against nine pure phenolics, and one complete mixture, for inhibition. Isolated marine bacteria and one marine lab culture were sensitive to both eelgrass extracts. Antibacterial activity was also found with the samples of nine pure phenolic acids, and one mix of these nine, known to be produced in Zostera. It is likely the phenolic acids in eelgrass extracts have antibacterial effects.