QQuestionMicrobiology
QuestionMicrobiology
E. coli and Enterobacter aerogenes are small Gram-negative rods. How can you differentiate them?
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Answer
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Step 1:I'll solve this microbiology problem by providing a clear, step-by-step differentiation between E. coli and Enterobacter aerogenes.
Step 2:: Biochemical Characteristics
- E. coli and Enterobacter aerogenes are both Gram-negative, rod-shaped bacteria - Key differences can be identified through specific biochemical tests
Step 3:: Lactose Fermentation
\text{Lactose Fermentation Test: } E. \text{ coli } (+), E. \text{ aerogenes } (+/-)
- E. coli: Rapidly ferments lactose, producing acid and gas - Enterobacter aerogenes: Slower lactose fermentation
Step 4:: Indole Production
\text{Indole Test: } E. \text{ coli } (+), E. \text{ aerogenes } (-)
- E. coli: Positive indole test (produces indole from tryptophan) - Enterobacter aerogenes: Negative indole test
Step 5:: Methyl Red Test
\text{Methyl Red Test: } E. \text{ coli } (+), E. \text{ aerogenes } (-)
- E. coli: Strongly positive (produces mixed acids) - Enterobacter aerogenes: Negative or weak positive
Step 6:: Habitat and Clinical Significance
- E. coli: Primarily found in intestinal tract, common cause of UTIs - Enterobacter aerogenes: Found in water, soil, and human gastrointestinal tract - Both can cause opportunistic infections
Final Answer
1. Indole test 2. Lactose fermentation rate 3. Methyl Red test 4. Specific biochemical characteristics
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