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Multiple Choice
Which test is commonly used to distinguish between staphylococci and streptococci in a laboratory setting?
A
Catalase test
B
Oxidase test
C
Gram stain
D
Coagulase test
Verified step by step guidance
1
Understand the characteristics of staphylococci and streptococci: Staphylococci are catalase-positive, meaning they produce the enzyme catalase, while streptococci are catalase-negative.
Learn about the catalase test: This test involves adding hydrogen peroxide to a bacterial culture. If bubbles form, it indicates the presence of catalase enzyme, which breaks down hydrogen peroxide into water and oxygen.
Recognize the purpose of the catalase test: It is used to differentiate between catalase-positive staphylococci and catalase-negative streptococci.
Consider other tests: The oxidase test, Gram stain, and coagulase test are used for different purposes. The oxidase test identifies bacteria that produce cytochrome c oxidase, the Gram stain differentiates bacteria based on cell wall properties, and the coagulase test identifies Staphylococcus aureus specifically.
Conclude that the catalase test is the most appropriate test to distinguish between staphylococci and streptococci based on their catalase activity.