Decomposition of Tartrates by the Coliform Bacteria

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Abstract
A photo-electric colorimetric method of analysis was used to determine quantitatively the decomposition of tartrates by the coliform bacteria. The ability to decompose d-tartrate salts was possessed by some strains of all of the recognized spp. The rates of destruction of d-tartrates by the coliform bacteria fell into two groups. About half of the cultures of Aerobacter aerogenes decomposed the d-tartrate salts rapidly with vigorous evolution of gas. The other cultures decomposed the d-tartrate slowly and with no visible evolution of gas. Strains of A. aerogenes that bring about very rapid destruction of d-tartrates cause the most rapid and most complete destruction of dl and [iota]-ammonium tartrates. All species decomposed the dl and [iota]-ammonium tartrates less rapidly than the d isomer. The [iota] form was attacked least rapidly of all. The opt. temp. of incubation for maximum destruction of d-tartrates varied with the cultures investigated. The initial pH of the medium had a marked effect on the ability of recognized species of coliform bacteria to grow and to decompose d-tartrates. Some strains of A. aerogenes grew and decomposed d-tartrates in media with initial pH values of 3.9. Differential tartrate media were found to be of no value for distinguishing between tartrate-decomposing and non-tartrate-decomposing cultures.

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