Potential Bioactive Compounds of Starfish Archaster typicus and Nardoa tuberculata Extract that Inhibits the Growth of Histamine-Producing Bacteria

Histamine-producing bacteria in fishery products pose a significant risk to food safety and public health. Beyond their role as a food source, marine organisms represent a valuable reservoir of bioactive compounds with both economic and therapeutic potential. However, limited scientific data exist regarding the ability of starfish-derived bioactive extracts to inhibit histamine-producing bacteria. This study investigated the antibacterial potential of the starfish extracts from Maluku waters, Indonesia, against histamine-producing bacteria. Using an exploratory approach, the bioactive components and inhibitory activities of Archaster typicus and Nardoa tuberculata extracts were examined. Phytochemical analysis revealed that A. typicus extract contains flavonoids, tannins, and saponins, while N. tuberculata extract contains flavonoids and steroids. Both extracts demonstrated strong inhibitory activity against Clostridium perfringens at a concentration of 100μg/ mL. Notably, A. typicus extract exhibited significantly greater and more consistent inhibition of Enterobacter aerogenes across all tested concentrations compared to N. tuberculata. These findings underscore the potential of the starfish extracts as a promising source of natural antibacterial agents, supporting future research and development in food safety and natural product discovery.