Evaluation of Bioactive Compounds in Mangroves: A Panacea towards Exploiting and Optimizing Mangrove Resources

Abstract

The tissues (leaves, barks and roots) of mangrove species (Nypa fruticans, Rhizophora racemosa and Avicennia africana) were screened qualitatively and quantitatively for phytochemicals (metabolites). Phytochemical analysis indicated presence of highly polar bioactive compounds (alkaloids, saponins tannins flavonoids and reducing sugar) in their tissues. The concentration of these compounds varied significantly (P<0.001). The highest concentrations of alkaloids and saponins were in A. africana, flavonoids and tannins in R. racemosa and reducing sugars in N. fruticans. The existence of these metabolites suggests the possible contributions and potentials of the mangroves to medicine and the environment.

Keywords: Mangrove species, Metabolites, Polar bioactive compounds, Medicine.