Tropodithietic acid is primarily known for its strong antimicrobial properties, making it valuable in biological and environmental applications. It is used as a natural antibiotic in aquaculture to control pathogenic bacteria, especially in the prevention of fish diseases caused by Vibrio species. Due to its biodegradable nature and effectiveness at low concentrations, it serves as an eco-friendly alternative to synthetic antibiotics. The compound also plays a role in microbial competition, where it is produced by certain marine bacteria to inhibit the growth of competing microorganisms. This bioactive property is being explored for use in probiotic treatments in marine farming and in the development of new antimicrobial coatings for medical and industrial surfaces.