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Updated: Sep 2, 2026

An Allelotyping PCR for Identifying Salmonella enterica serovars Enteritidis, Hadar, Heidelberg, and Typhimurium
Published on: July 22, 2011
[Phage typing and biotyping of salmonella typhi-murium (author's transl)]
Abstract:
1998 strains of Salmonella typhi-murium from two different regions of West-Germany were investigated according to their biotype and phagetype. 132 strains were isolated from sewage, 320 strains from animals and the others from human beings. 60 different phagetypes were found. The phagetype 49 occurred most often (11,9% resp. 10,3%). A correlation between biotype and phagetype could not be observed. Nearly every phagetype could be divided into several biotypes. However, only few biotypes prevaled. These comprised the biotypes 1, 10 and 17. The examination of the splitting of trehalose was useful in the biochemical differentiation. Concerning strains of animal origin it was remarkable that most strains from cattle resp. calves belonged to the phagetype 49. Among 145 strains from pigeons 95,9% could be classified as phagetype 2. With exception of 3 strains all the other strains from pigeons did not possess the O-antigen 5. The majority of the strains belonged to the biotype 8. All these strains could not split maltose.
Insights
This study analyzed 1998 Salmonella typhi-murium strains, revealing 60 phagetypes. Phage type 49 was most common, with specific types linked to animal origins like cattle and pigeons.
Area of Science:
- Microbiology
- Bacteriology
- Epidemiology
Context:
- Investigated 1998 Salmonella typhi-murium strains from West Germany.
- Samples sourced from sewage, animals (cattle, pigeons), and humans.
- Characterized strains based on biotype and phagetype for epidemiological insights.
Purpose:
- To determine the biotype and phagetype distribution of Salmonella typhi-murium.
- To identify prevalent phagetypes and their correlation with host sources.
- To assess biochemical differentiation markers like trehalose splitting.
Summary:
- Identified 60 distinct phagetypes, with Phage type 49 being the most frequent (10.3-11.9%).
- Observed no direct correlation between biotype and phagetype, though certain biotypes (1, 10, 17) were prevalent.
- Found specific associations: Phage type 49 common in cattle/calves, Phage type 2 dominant in pigeons (lacking O-antigen 5).
- Trehalose splitting proved useful for biochemical differentiation.
Impact:
- Provides a comprehensive overview of Salmonella typhi-murium diversity in West Germany.
- Highlights potential sources and transmission routes of specific Salmonella strains.
- Informs public health surveillance and control strategies for Salmonella infections.

