Gram-positive bacteria

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Gram-positive bacteria

Gram-positive bacteria are a type of bacteria that give a positive result in the Gram stain test, which is traditionally used to quickly classify bacteria into two broad categories according to their cell wall.

Pronunciation

  • IPA: /ɡræm ˈpɒzɪtɪv bækˈtɪəriə/

Etymology

The term "Gram-positive" is named after the Danish bacteriologist Hans Christian Gram, who developed the Gram stain. "Positive" refers to the reaction of the bacteria to the stain.

Definition

Gram-positive bacteria are those that are stained dark blue or violet by Gram staining. This is in contrast to Gram-negative bacteria, which cannot retain the crystal violet stain, instead taking up the counterstain (red or pink) and appearing red or pink.

Characteristics

Gram-positive bacteria have a thick peptidoglycan layer that retains the crystal violet stain. They lack the outer membrane found in Gram-negative bacteria. Some examples of Gram-positive bacteria include Staphylococcus, Streptococcus, and Bacillus species.

Related Terms

See also

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