Abstract. Ekor Kucing (Cabomba furcata) is a dominating water plant, which is rapidly proliferating in Lake Chini, Pahang, Malaysia. If left uncontrolled, the prevalence of this plant would threaten other plants, such as by inhibiting the growth of lotus (Nelumbo nicifera and Nympae lotus). It is also suspected as being a cause of pollution in Lake Chini. Steps to eradicate or control C. furcata plants first require a comprehensive study of its phytochemical content through methods of chemical screening, extraction/fractionation and analysis of individual compounds. Phytochemical screening carried out on the extracts detected flavonoid, saponin and alkaloid groups, but not triterpene and tannin. Different extraction yields were obtained from various plant parts, with the highest yield (%g/g sample) obtained before and after alkaloid fractionation were from the leaf (10.1%, 6.9%), followed by stem (9.6%, 4.5%) and flower (0.8%, 0.5%). Identification of alkaloids in C. furcata extracts by TLC showed the presence of nicotine, tomatine, thebaine and quinine.
IntroductionLake Chini is the second largest natural lake in Malaysia, with an area of 202 hectares. It is rich in flora and fauna, with 288 plant species, 25 species of aquatic plants, 92 bird species and 144 species of fish [1]. Recently, the existence of aquatic plants has been disrupted by the dominance of Ekor Kucing plant (Cabomba furcata), which also was reported to have an adverse effect on some aspects of water quality. This plant is an aquatic weed that has the ability to grow rapidly. It has spread throughout the lake, becoming the dominant plant and one of contributors to pollution.The plant domination has endangered the lotus population (Nelumbo nicifera and Nympae lotus), which is an attraction for visitors [2]. Plants that have the ability to grow and develop into a dominant position usually produce compounds that inhibit the growth and development of other plants. These are known as allelopathic effects [3]. Plants may also produce compounds that are beneficial to health and well being [4]. For example, alkaloids from plants such as atropine, codeine and nicotine are widely used in the production of drugs [5].