New rapid methods for the identification of sulphate-reducing bacteria

Methods currently in use for the identification of sulphate-reducing bacteria are time-consuming relying on biochemical and cultural characteristics. Two immunological techniques have been developed to identify the bacteria within this group more rapidly. The microtitre plate agglutination assay is simple and inexpensive. Relatively few cross-reactions have been detected and these are within a species. The direct ELISA is even more specific, but is somewhat more costly and requires special equipment and expertise. Both tests would be appropriate for species identification in the sulphate-reducing bacteria.