Ants (Hymenoptera: Formicidae) are among the most ecologically influential terrestrial invertebrates, playing major roles in soil modification, nutrient cycling, and ecosystem regulation. In coastal ecosystems, where environmental conditions are highly dynamic, ant nesting behavior reflects strong adaptive responses to abiotic and biotic factors. This review synthesizes current knowledge on ant nest architecture, spatial distribution, ecological roles, and their significance as bioindicators in coastal habitats. Special attention is given to environmental drivers such as soil texture, salinity, moisture, vegetation cover, and tidal influence that shape nesting patterns. The review also integrates conceptual frameworks and discusses how ant colonies respond to anthropogenic disturbances. Overall, ants are highlighted as ecosystem engineers and reliable indicators of coastal ecosystem health.

Keywords: Ant nests, coastal ecosystem, bioindicator, soil ecology, spatial distribution, Formicidae.

The present study evaluated the effect of 27 different Mineral Salt Medium-Lignin (MSM-L) formulations on the biomass production and sporulation of two laccase-producing Aspergillus species, Aspergillus nomiae and Aspergillus niger. Laccase activity was confirmed using the guaiacol plate assay, demonstrating the ligninolytic potential of both species. Furthermore, optimization of culture medium composition for enhanced growth and sporulation was carried out. The findings indicate that these two Aspergillus species may serve as promising candidates for laccase production and other biotechnological applications involving lignin degradation and bioremediation.

Keywords: Aspergillus nomiae, Aspergillus niger, fungal growth, laccase, lignin degradation, mineral salt medium.

Curd, a traditional fermented dairy product, harbours a diverse bacterial community that contributes to its nutritional and functional properties. The present study was undertaken to isolate a beneficial bacterial strain, Bacillus amyloliquefaciens, from curd and to evaluate its antimicrobial properties. The findings suggest that Bacillus amyloliquefaciens possesses significant antibacterial and antifungal activities, indicating its potential application in food preservation and in the development of natural antimicrobial agents.

Keywords: Antibacterial activity, antifungal activity, Bacillus amyloliquefaciens, Gram staining.