Leuconostoc pseudomesenteroides

Leuconostoc pseudomesenteroides is a species of bacteria belonging to the genus Leuconostoc. It is a Gram-positive, facultative anaerobic, non-spore-forming, coccoid bacterium.

Taxonomy

The genus Leuconostoc is part of the family Leuconostocaceae, in the order Lactobacillales, class Bacilli, phylum Firmicutes, and kingdom Bacteria. The species pseudomesenteroides was first described in 1926 by van Niel.

Characteristics

Leuconostoc pseudomesenteroides is characterized by its ability to ferment sucrose and raffinose, but not lactose. It is also catalase-negative and oxidase-negative. The bacterium is generally found in fermented foods and plant material, but can also be found in the gastrointestinal tract of animals and humans.

Role in Food Production

Leuconostoc pseudomesenteroides plays a significant role in the production of certain types of fermented foods, such as sauerkraut and kimchi. It is also used in the dairy industry for the production of buttermilk and cheese.

Health Implications

While generally considered safe, Leuconostoc pseudomesenteroides can cause infection in immunocompromised individuals. It has been associated with endocarditis, meningitis, and other bacterial infections.

See Also

• Leuconostoc mesenteroides
• Leuconostoc citreum
• Leuconostoc lactis