Taxonomic Study of Nocardia farcinica Using Serological and Physiological Characters

Abstract

Thirty-four strains designated Nocardia farcinica, four strains of N. asteroides, and one of N. brasiliensis have been serologically analyzed by means of an immunodiffusion technique. These strains have also been studied concerning their ability to produce arylsulfatase, to grow in the presence of 7% NaCl, and to grow at 45 C. The N. farcinica strains were divided into two well-distinguished clusters. One of these clusters comprised 24 strains, which appear to belong to the genus Mycobacterium, whereas the other cluster comprised 10 strains, which seem to belong to the genus Nocardia.