Antibiofilm and Antibacterial Potential of Phyllanthus Emblica Extract Against Multidrug-Resistant Shrimp Pathogens

Abstract

Vibriosis remains a significant challenge in shrimp aquaculture. In response, many farmers resort to indiscriminate use of hormones, antibiotics, disinfectants, and other chemicals in feed and culture water to safeguard their stock. In the present study, E. coli and Aeromonas spp. emerged as the predominant bacterial isolates. Herbal agents offer a sustainable alternative in aquaculture for controlling or reducing pathogenic infections. Phytochemical screening of Phyllanthus emblica fruit extract revealed the presence of multiple bioactive compounds. The extract demonstrated antibacterial activity against biofilm-producing shrimp pathogens, with E. coli and Pseudomonas aeruginosa showing the greatest susceptibility. Growth inhibition occurred in a dose-dependent manner. Molecular docking identified β-sitosterol as a potent antibiofilm compound, exhibiting strong binding affinity (-8.4 kcal/mol) with a key biofilm-associated protein. Further in silico analysis was performed using bioactive compounds identified through GC–MS profiling.