Intracellular Bacteroids in the Cockroach ( Periplaneta americana Linn.)

Abstract

In an attempt to clarify the status of the intracellular bacteroids of the cockroaches, previous techniques and culture methods were repeated, without verifying reported successes in cultivation of these bodies. Attempts to cultivate the bacteroids in serum, in chick amniotic cavities, and on chick chorioallantois also failed. Reported successes of cultivation of these bacteroids is ascribed to faulty techniques and some of the weaknesses of these techniques are pointed out. These bodies may yet be considered to be separate living entities and possibly belong to the general group of Rickettsia.