Final answer:
The identification of enteric bacteria in the Enterobacteriaceae family involves biochemical tests such as glucose fermentation, citrate test, urea test, motility, and hydrogen sulfide production, which are part of the IMViC series and additional assays like the TSI test.
Step-by-step explanation:
The identification of common enteric bacteria in the Enterobacteriaceae family can be done using a series of tests that differentiate the various species based on their biochemical characteristics. Among the tests that can be used for this purpose are:
- Glucose fermentation
- Citrate test
- Urea test
- Motility
- Hydrogen sulfide production
These tests are part of a broader array of assays that include the Indole, Methyl Red, Voges-Proskauer, and Citrate (IMViC) tests, as well as the Triple Sugar Iron (TSI) test, which can all aid in distinguishing between members of the Enterobacteriaceae family. Enterobacteriaceae bacteria are typically oxidase-negative and ferment glucose, which sets them apart from other Gram-negative rods.
An additional relevant test is the ability to ferment different carbohydrates, such as lactose, sucrose, and other sugars including mannitol and sorbitol. These fermentation tests, along with susceptibility to antibiotics, production of H₂S, utilization of citrate, nitrate reduction, and the urease test, contribute to the creation of a biochemical profile that can facilitate the identification of specific species such as E. coli, Salmonella, and Shigella. It should be noted that while the coagulase test is used specifically for the identification of Staphylococcus aureus, it is not relevant for the Enterobacteriaceae family, nor is the oxidase test which they are typically negative for.