Quantitative and Qualitative Analysis of Chitin and Chitosan from the Shell of the Mud Crab, Scylla Serrata (forskal, 1775)

Chitin and Chitosan are polysaccharides found abundantly in nature. The presence of these polysaccharides is found largely in marine ecosystem next only to the plant source is noteworthy. Especially the production and consumption of crustaceans like crabs and prawns have increased in the recent years, thereby generating a large amount of solid shell waste. In the present study the crab, Scylla serrata having great importance in mangroves and a sought after species of crustaceans in the coastal region of the country is considered. The shell waste of the crab, Scylla serrata is taken for the extraction of Chitin and Chitosan by traditional method of demineralisation, deproteinisation and deacetylation process. Chitin and Chitosan extracted from natural source like crab is non-toxic and biodegradable biopolymer used in medicine, pharmacy and agriculture. By modifying some of the properties of these polysaccharides, they can act as bio adhesives, nanocomposites, antimicrobial agents and for other biocompatible applications. The Chitin and Chitosan obtained in the present study were analysed quantitatively and qualitatively. Thus ensuring the extracted Chitin and Chitosan could be considered for further applications.