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The phage adsorption test: a simple method for differentiation between staphylococci and micrococci
The Journal of Infectious Diseases
|September 1, 1978
Summary
A phage adsorption test effectively differentiates staphylococci from micrococci. Most Staphylococcus strains inactivated phage U16, while only a few Micrococcus strains, specifically Micrococcus candicans, adsorbed it, highlighting taxonomic challenges.
Area of Science:
- Microbiology
- Bacteriology
- Taxonomy
Background:
- Staphylococci and micrococci are Gram-positive cocci often found in similar environments.
- Accurate differentiation is crucial for clinical and environmental microbiology.
- Traditional methods for differentiation can be complex or time-consuming.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate a simple phage adsorption test for differentiating Staphylococcus and Micrococcus species.
- To assess the utility of staphylococcal phage U16 in distinguishing between these bacterial genera.
Main Methods:
- A phage adsorption test using staphylococcal phage U16 was performed on 132 strains of Staphylococcus and 123 strains of Micrococcus.
- Adsorption and inactivation of the phage by bacterial strains were measured.
Main Results:
- All tested Staphylococcus strains significantly inactivated phage U16.
- Only three strains of Micrococcus candicans showed adsorption of phage U16, while other Micrococcus strains did not.
- This indicates a clear distinction in phage interaction between the two genera.
Conclusions:
- The phage adsorption test is a simple and effective method for differentiating Staphylococcus from Micrococcus.
- Micrococcus candicans presents unique characteristics regarding phage interaction, posing taxonomic considerations.
- This test offers a reliable alternative for bacterial identification in laboratory settings.