BSCI 424 — PATHOGENIC MICROBIOLOGY — Fall 2000

Catalase is an enzyme found in most bacteria. It catalyzes the breakdown of hydrogen peroxide to release free oxygen.

2 H₂O₂ ---------> 2 H₂O + O₂

Procedure: Add one drop of H₂O₂ to a glass slide with a loopful of growth from each culture to be tested. The development of an immediate froth of bubbles is indicative of a positive catalase test. The test is performed on a blood-free medium.

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