PHYTOCHEMICALS ANALYSIS OF FRESH AND BOILED GOLDEN APPLESNAIL (Pomacea canaliculata)

Abstract

The golden apple snail, Pomacea canaliculata, has a complex history in Indonesia, where it was originally introduced as an aquarium fauna in 1981 but later became a pest in rice fields. As a result, there is a need for better understanding of the biological aspects of this species to develop efficient control measures. Phytochemical compounds found in plants, such as phenolic components, glucosinolates, and carotenoids, have various biological activities and potential health benefits. However, the phytochemical properties of the golden snail have not been extensively studied. In this research, samples of raw and boiled golden snail meat were analyzed for alkaloids, steroids, flavonoids, saponins, phenol hydroquinone, and carbohydrates using various methods. The results showed that both raw and boiled golden snail meat tested negative for alkaloids, steroids, flavonoids, saponins, and phenol hydroquinone. However, the Molisch test for carbohydrates gave positive results, indicating the presence of carbohydrates in both samples.

These findings contribute to a better understanding of the phytochemical properties of the golden snail and highlight the potential biological activities of these compounds. Further research in this area may lead to the development of more targeted and sustainable control measures for the golden snail as a rice pest. Additionally, the presence of carbohydrates in the snail meat may have implications for its nutritional value and potential uses in the food industry.