Taxonomic and Serological Studies on Micropolyspora faeni and Micropolyspora Strains from Soil Bearing the Specific Epithet rectivirgula

Abstract

The results of serological studies on 6 strains of M. faeni from hay, sputum and plant debris, and 5 strains of M. rectivirgula from soil indicated no significant differences between the 2 spp. Antisera raised in rabbits against purified antigens of the type strains were used to compare the 11 strains by immunoelectrophoresis. The detailed antigenic composition of the type strains was also determined by 2-dimensional immunoelectrophoresis against specific rabbit antisera and pooled serum samples from patients suffering from farmer''s lung. Cross-reacting antigens were identified by intermediate gel immunoelectrophoresis. The close similarity of the 2 species was confirmed by the results of 60 morphological, physiological and biochemical tests applied to the 11 strains. The strains are considered to belong to a single species and it is proposed that the specific epithet M. faeni be conserved for the taxon.