A master's thesis at the College of Agriculture, University of Basra, explored "Improving Surfactin Production from the Local Strain Bacillus subtilis Z31 and Evaluating its Effectiveness as a Natural Antioxidant."

The study, presented by researcher Zainab Hussein Abdul Wahab, aimed to isolate various types of Bacillus bacteria that produce surfactants from different local sources.

The study included identifying the bacterial isolates using morphological, microscopic, and biochemical tests, selecting the most efficient surfactin-producing isolate, and confirming its identification using 16S rRNA assays.

The study addressed improving surfactin production by identifying optimal culture conditions and using oil as a carbon source. It also investigated the properties of the resulting surfactin as an emulsifier, surfactant, antimicrobial, and antioxidant.

The study concluded that the produced surfactin could be used to extend the shelf life of sunflower oil as a natural antioxidant, replacing synthetic antioxidants. Media and Government Communication Division / College of Agriculture