Identification and Characterization of Pediococcus Species from Piper betle (Betel) Leaves

Betel vine is an edible creeper used in folk medicine to aid digestion since time immemorial. It is an ideal candidate deemed for the bioprospection of endophytic microorganisms with valuable attributes. This study aimed at the characterization of potential bacteria from fermented betel leaves. We report the presence of Pediococcus species with probiotic properties from betel. The isolated organisms were subjected to preliminary biochemical analysis and exhibited growth at 37°C and pH 6.7 with fermented glucose, sucrose and lactose without the evolution of CO₂. Also, the organisms presented tolerance to 6.5% NaCl and 0.3% bile salt. The three isolates assimilated cholesterol dispensed in the medium and when exposed to E. coli evinced antagonism. Based on the 16S rRNA sequencing and phylogenetic tree analysis, the organisms were identified to be Pediococcus acidilactici and Pediococcus pentosaceus. Both the organisms when functionally characterized displayed beta-galactosidase, amylase and esterase activities, but Pediococcus pentosaceus had a substantial effect proving its candidature for probiotic applications.