Rapid iodometric detection of Aeromonas amylase and its diagnostic significance

Twenty-five Aeromonas hydrophila isolates from different sources (Food, 13; Clinical, 6 and Environmental, 6) were studied for the mode of production of Amylase and rapid iodometric detection of the enzyme in vitro. All twenty-five of the isolates produced the enzyme constitutively at 37 degrees C. Amylase producing ability was not dependent on the source of isolation of Aeromonas (F = 0.1069; p > 0.05). Using iodometric technique, in a microtitration tray, the enzyme was fully demonstrated in 10(40%) of the isolates within 30 min, in 22(88%) within 60 min and in all (25 or 100%) within 90 min. The rapid detection of Aeromonas amylase will, no doubt, be of great value in routine diagnostic microbiology.