Resumo

CONDORI, David, PINATELLI, Marco, ELIAS, Rafaela et al. Análisis proximal, características fisicoquímicas y actividad antimicrobiana del musgo blanco (Sphagnum maguellanicum Brid.) proveniente de Junín, Perú. Rev. Soc. Quím. Perú, jan./jun. 2012, vol.78, no.1, p.37-42. ISSN 1810-634X.

In the highlands of Peru grows abundantly Sphagnum maguellanicum moss, which is harvested and dried by the communities of Junín, to be exported at a low price, mainly as substrate for the culture of orchids. The objective of the present study was to determine the proximate chemical composition, the main physico-chemical characteristics and the antibacterial activity of Sphagnum maguellanicum from Junín; as well as to carry out a preliminary study of its metallic ion Cu+2 adsorption capacity; with the aim of identifying its potential for the development of derived products with greater added value. We found for the Peruvian moss acid pH values (4,5 - 6,0), great absorptivity of water (up to 47 times its dry weight after 24 hours), good metallic ion adsorption, high content of fiber and carbohydrates; as well as a good antimicrobial activity in vitro against Staphylococcus aureus and Streptococcus faecalis. These characteristics make Peruvian moss a possible candidate for the development of filters for the removal of metals and bacteria.

Palavras-chave: moss; Sphagnum maguellanicum; antimicrobial; proximate composition.