MicroVision
	Catalase Production
	Catalase is an enzyme that converts hydrogen peroxide into water and oxygen. The presence of catalase can be easily detected by the slide method. A drop of 3 percent hydrogen peroxide is put on a slide and the bacteria is emulsified in the drop. The presence of bubbles is evidence of the production of oxygen. Alternatively, bacteria may be tested by dropping hydrogen peroxide directly onto colonies growing on a plate. However, colonies growing on blood agar should not be tested in this way because blood cells contain catalase and would cause a false positive reaction. Staphylococcus, Micrococcus and most aerobic organisms produce catalase, while Streptococcus and most anaerobic bacteria are unable to produce it.   Click on the image to see an enlarged version.  Catalase Slide Test
	© 1998