SUMMARY: Eleven strains regarded as moraxellas were studied; nine were characterized by moderate growth on the usual media, a positive oxidase reaction and sensitivity to penicillin, and six of these preferred or required a humid atmosphere when incubated at 37°. The classification of these strains was considered correct. Two strains did not show any of these characteristics, and it was concluded that they should not properly be classified as moraxellas.
A positive oxidase reaction, sensitivity to penicillin, and preference for a humid atmosphere at 37° may be useful criteria in the classification of Moraxella. It is suggested that Moraxella may be closely related to Neisseria, and that the description of the genus and its taxonomic position should be revised in accordance with Lwoff’s proposals.
Mima polymorpha var. oxidans (De Bord) is believed to belong to Moraxella, whereas other members of the tribe Mimeae (De Bord) and Bacterium anitratum (Schaub & Hauber) are probably not closely related to Moraxella.
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