Distribution of microorganisms with particular reference to encapsulated bacteria in kefir grains

Propagable and non-propagable kefir grains in a form resembling cauliflower florets were observed by scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and light microscopy. In propagable grains short and long rod-shaped bacteria and yeasts formed separate colonies on the outside surface and inside. Internally, filaments which derived from capsules around the cells extended radially from a population of long rod-shaped bacteria. In non-propagable grains long rod-shaped bacteria with filamentous appendages were not observed, but only short rod-shaped bacteria and yeasts. Indian ink preparations showed presence of encapsulated bacteria in propagable grains and absence of these in non-propagable ones. The above results suggest that encapsulated bacteria are responsible for propagation of kefir grains.