What characteristic do Klebsiella pneumoniae and Enterobacter cloacae share that makes them similar in identification?

What characteristic do Klebsiella pneumoniae and Enterobacter cloacae share that makes them similar in identification?

• A. Both are urease positive
• B. Both are nonmotile
• C. Both are lactose fermenters
• D. Both are indole positive

Answer: (B)

The similarity in identification between Klebsiella pneumoniae and Enterobacter cloacae primarily stems from their nonmotility. Both organisms are part of the Enterobacteriaceae family and are characterized by their inability to move independently due to the absence of flagella. This nonmotile nature is a key factor in laboratory identification, as it helps differentiate them from other motile bacteria, which might show more complex movement patterns on semi-solid culture media. While both organisms have other shared characteristics, such as being lactose fermenters, their nonmotility is a distinct feature that simplifies their identification in clinical microbiology. Nonmotility can be a positive clue when performing tests that help classify and identify various Enterobacteriaceae, where motility is typically observed in other genera of the family. This feature is crucial when interpreting biochemical tests and developing a comprehensive understanding of their behavior in clinical samples.

The similarity in identification between Klebsiella pneumoniae and Enterobacter cloacae primarily stems from their nonmotility. Both organisms are part of the Enterobacteriaceae family and are characterized by their inability to move independently due to the absence of flagella. This nonmotile nature is a key factor in laboratory identification, as it helps differentiate them from other motile bacteria, which might show more complex movement patterns on semi-solid culture media.

While both organisms have other shared characteristics, such as being lactose fermenters, their nonmotility is a distinct feature that simplifies their identification in clinical microbiology. Nonmotility can be a positive clue when performing tests that help classify and identify various Enterobacteriaceae, where motility is typically observed in other genera of the family. This feature is crucial when interpreting biochemical tests and developing a comprehensive understanding of their behavior in clinical samples.