Standardized bacteriologic techniques for the characterization of Mycoplasma species

Bacteriological methods applicable to the characterization and differentiation of Mycoplasma species were investigated. After appropriate modification and standardization, these methods were tested on 53 Mycoplasma strains comprising more than 22 species. The tests found most suitable for purposes of characterization and differentiation were: breakdown of glucose by oxidation or fermentation, hydrolysis of arginine or urea, reduction of tetrazolium, tellurite, and methylene blue, phosphatase activity, production of film and spots, hydrolysis of gelatin, digestion of casein and coagulated serum, sensitivity to optochin, and hemolysis of sheep erythrocytes.