Distribution of the genus Leptospira in soil and water

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Abstract
The distribution of the aerobic spirochetes Leptospira in surface waters, soil and aquatic animals was investigated. Isolates from water and soil exhibited physiological characteristics common to members of the [L.] biflexa complex, none were capable of infecting experimental animals [hamster], and leptospires could not be isolated from the 8 genera [Rana spp., Chrysemys picta, Chelydra serpentina, Necturus maculosus, Ambystoma spp., Umbra limi, Eucalia inconstans and Ictalurus sp.] of aquatic animals examined. The isolation frequencies from surface waters were: stream, 100%; lake, 65%; spring, 28%; bog lake, 5%; and marsh, 0%. With the exception of the stream, more isolations were obtained from the soil adjacent to the water than from the water. Leptospires were most frequently associated with soils of high and organic matter content.

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