Biochemical Characteristics of Pigmented Coliform Bacteria

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Abstract
15 chromogenic coliform bacteria were subjected to biochem. examination. On the basis of both qualitative and quantitative data, 12 of the organisms were placed in Escherichia and 3 in Aerobacter. Although 3 cultures produced pigment at all temps. where growth occurred, incubation at low temps. was found to be necessary for pigment production by 12 of the cultures; these isolates produced pigment (various shades of yellow) at 19[degree] C but not at 30 or 37[degree]. Pigmented coliform bacteria are probably more abundant in nature than has previously been reported; in laboratories where cultures are not stored at low temps. chromogenesis may be absent. The anaerobic glucose metabolism of typical strains was studied and compared with fermentation by spp. of Escherichia and Aerobacter as reported in the literature. No significant deviations from the typical dissimilations were observed as shown by C-H balances.