Detection and identification of group B streptococci by use of pigment production.
Pigment production by group B streptococci (GBS) is a useful test for identification of the organisms. The test is positive in 99.5% of beta-haemolytic strains. No false-positives are noted. Non-haemolytic strains do not produce pigment. Islam's media less agar can be used as a one-step broth detector of GBS in mixed cultures. This may have application for the detection of GBS in women in labour. When used as an identification system for GBS, serum-starch broth can be further modified by reduction of serum and starch concentrations by at least 80%.
D001431:Bacteriological Techniques; D003470:Culture Media; D010860:Pigments, Biological / Q000096:biosynthesis*; D013292:Streptococcus agalactiae / Q000302:isolation & purification* / Q000378:metabolism
D003470:Culture Media; D010860:Pigments, Biological