Final answer:
Bacillus cereus is hemolytic, catalase positive, and motile, as evidenced by beta-hemolysis on blood agar, positive catalase test, and observable movement via flagella in motility tests.
Step-by-step explanation:
Yes, Bacillus cereus is indeed hemolytic, catalase positive, and motile. This bacterium is known to cause foodborne illnesses and is capable of hemolysis, as indicated by its ability to lyse red blood cells and cause a clear zone in blood agar, known as beta-hemolysis.
B. cereus is also positive for the catalase test, which means it produces the enzyme catalase that breaks down hydrogen peroxide into water and oxygen. Furthermore, Bacillus cereus is capable of movement, utilizing its numerous flagella for locomotion, which is evident in a motility test where growth radiates outward from the line of inoculation. Understanding these characteristics is essential in microbiology and can assist in identifying the presence of B. cereus in clinical samples and food products.