Multivariate Analysis of Four Essential Oils: Turmeric (Curcuma longa), Lemongrass (Cymbopogon citratus), Ginger (Zingiber officinale), and Ishpink Leaves (Ocotea quixos) to Correlate Geographic Location, Soil Type, and Extraction Method with the Composition of Each (Phase 4)

This project addresses the limitations associated with antibiotic use in fish farming by exploring natural alternatives through the evaluation of essential oils' antimicrobial activity. The primary goal is to determine the minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) of pure essential oils and their combinations (binary and ternary mixtures) against key fish pathogens, including *Aeromonas hydrophila*, *A. salmonicida*, and *Pseudomonas fluorescens*. The methodology involves in vitro and in vivo assays, supplemented by FT-IR spectral analysis to characterize essential oils selected based on their chemotype. The study will investigate potential synergy or antagonism among the mixture components. Expected outcomes include scientific publications detailing the in vitro and in vivo antibacterial activity and the antioxidant activity of the mixtures, alongside the potential filing of a patent for water-soluble emulsions based on these essential oils for treating bacterial diseases in aquaculture.<br/><br/><b>Goal</b>: <br/>To study the antibacterial activity of pure essential oils and their binary and ternary mixtures against common pathogens in fish farming (Aeromonas hydrophila, Aeromonas salmonicida, and Pseudomonas fluorescens) through in vitro and in vivo assays, aiming to determine the minimum inhibitory concentration and evaluate potential synergies.<br/><br/><b>Research lines</b>: <br/>Ethnobiology