ISOLATION, CHARACTERISATION AND IDENTIFICATION OF BACTERIA ASSOCIATED WITH WATERLEAF (TALINUM TRIANGULARE)

The study of microorganisms associated with vegetables, particularly leafy greens such as waterleaf (Talinum triangulare), has become increasingly significant due to the public health concerns related to foodborne illnesses. Vegetables, while being vital to a healthy diet, can serve as carriers of pathogenic bacteria, leading to severe diseases. Waterleaf, widely consumed in tropical regions for its nutritional benefits, is susceptible to bacterial contamination during cultivation, harvesting, and handling. Contaminants may include bacteria from genera such as Escherichia, Salmonella, Listeria, and Staphylococcus, which pose serious health risks. The need for continuous microbial monitoring of vegetables is critical for mitigating these risks. Advances in molecular techniques, such as polymerase chain reaction (PCR) and sequencing, have improved the detection and characterization of both culturable and non-culturable bacteria, aiding in public health protection efforts.