Journal of Pharmacy & Pharmacognosy Research · Published 2026-01-01 · DOI 10.56499/jppres_14.1.2340
Context: α-Amylase is an essential industrial enzyme widely applied in the conversion of starch into simple sugars. Marine environments are a promising source of novel enzyme-producing microorganisms, owing to their diverse and adaptive microbial communities. Aims: To isolate and characterize amylolytic microorganisms from marine sources and to evaluate the α-amylase activity of selected isolates. Methods: Samples were collected from the marine zone of Pramuka Island, Indonesia. Isolation of bacteria and fungi was performed using modified Zobell media, followed by screening for α-amylase activity using starch agar and iodine staining. The most potent isolate, BPP16, underwent morphological, biochemical, and molecular characterization via 16S rRNA gene analysis. Crude α-amylase was extracted through liquid-state fermentation and its activity quantified using the dinitrosalicylic acid (DNS) assay. Results: A total of 27 pure microbial cultures (19 bacterial, 8 fungal) were obtained, with 18 bacterial isolates demonstrating α-amylase activity. Isolate BPP16 exhibited the highest amylolytic index (5.23 ± 0.07). Characterization revealed Gram-positive, rod-shaped morphology consistent with Bacillus subtilis. Biochemical assays indicated positive results for indole, methyl red, Voges-Proskauer, catalase, and motility tests, with glucose fermentation observed. Molecular analysis confirmed 100% sequence identity with Bacillus subtilis. The crude enzyme showed an activity of 10.29 IU/mg and a specific activity of 3.62 U/mg. Conclusions: The marine-derived Bacillus subtilis BPP16 exhibited substantial α-amylase activity, suggesting its potential for industrial applications in starch processing.
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