Strains ofStreptococcus lactiswhich contain β-galactosidase
SUMMARYIn the past the classification of ATCC 7962 as a strain ofStreptococcus lactishas been questioned because it contains β-galactosidase and not β-phosphogalactosidase, and because all extracts do not react with group N antiserum. A comparison was made between ATCC 7962 and known strains ofStr. lactisusing physiological properties, some of the properties of the lactate dehydrogenases and percent guanine plus cytosine in the DNA. ATCC 7962 was distinguished only by its ability to ferment pentoses. The degree of hydribization between the DNA of ATCC 7962 and that of a typical strain ofStr. lactiswas 67 %. ATCC 7962 is an atypical strain ofStr. lactis. The properties of a wild strain ofStr. lactisisolated from radishes in Brunei which contains β-galactosidase and β-phosphogalactosidase, are given also. This strain ferments pentoses.