Ainigmaptilones, sesquiterpenes from the Antarctic gorgonian coral Ainigmaptilon antarcticus

Antarctic octocorals from the Weddell Sea of Western Antarctica appear to select either physical or chemical means of defense. Fractionation of the bioactive extract from the chemically defended Antarctic gorgonian coral Ainigmaptilon antarcticus yielded two sesquiterpenes, ainigmaptilones A (1) and B (2). Ainigmaptilone A has broad spectrum bioactivity toward sympatric predatory and fouling organisms, including antibiotic activity.