Microbiology Staining Techniques and Identification

These flashcards cover key concepts and vocabulary related to microbiology staining techniques, media interpretations, and biochemical tests.

Gram Stain

A staining technique to identify bacterial cell wall structure; purple indicates Gram-positive and pink/red indicates Gram-negative.

Morphology

The study of the shape and structure of microorganisms; includes cocci (round), bacilli (rods), and spirilla (spiral).

Endospore Stain

A staining method that identifies endospores as green and vegetative cells as pink.

Capsule Stain

A staining technique that reveals capsules as a clear halo around the cell against a dark background.

EMB Agar

Eosin Methylene Blue Agar; selective for Gram-negative bacteria and differential for lactose fermentation.

MacConkey Agar

A selective and differential culture medium for Gram-negative bacteria, specifically for lactose fermentation.

Coliform

A group of Gram-negative, lactose-fermenting rods commonly used as indicators of water quality.

MSA (Mannitol Salt Agar)

A selective medium for Staphylococcus due to high salt concentration, and differential for mannitol fermentation.

Blood Agar

An enriched and differential medium used to detect hemolysis by bacteria.

Catalase Test

A test to determine the presence of catalase enzyme; positive result shows bubbles.

Oxidase Test

A test for the presence of cytochrome C oxidase; positive result shows a purple/blue color within 10 seconds.

Phenol Red Sugar Broths

Tests for carbohydrate fermentation; yellow indicates acid production, red indicates no fermentation, and pink indicates protein use.

Citrate Test

A biochemical test that indicates the ability to utilize citrate as the sole carbon source; blue indicates positive.

SIM Test (Sulfur, Indole, Motility)

A combination test for sulfur reduction, indole production, and motility; black indicates sulfur reduction, red ring indicates indole production.

Urease Test

A test for urease production; hot pink indicates positive result.

Gelatinase Test

A test to determine gelatin liquefaction; liquid upon chilling indicates positive result.

Phenylalanine Deaminase Test

A test that detects the ability to deaminate phenylalanine; green indicates positive result.