Phenol Red Broth w/Maltose and Durham Tube 8mL, 10/Pk

Phenol Red Broth with Maltose is a differential test medium used to determine the ability of an organism to ferment a specific carbohydrate—in this case, Maltose. It is commonly used in the identification of Gram-negative enteric bacteria (Enterobacteriaceae) and other microorganisms based on their fermentation patterns.

The Test Components:

1. Carbohydrate (Maltose): The sole sugar source available for fermentation.

2. pH Indicator (Phenol Red):

   • Red: Neutral pH (Initial state/Negative for acid).

   • Yellow: Acidic pH (Positive for acid production).

   • Pink/Magenta: Alkaline pH (Negative for acid; indicates the organism degraded peptone instead).

3. Durham Tube: A small, inverted glass vial inside the main tube designed to capture gas bubbles produced during fermentation.

Interpreting Results:

• Positive (Acid/Gas): The broth turns Yellow (indicating acid production) and a distinct gas bubble appears inside the Durham tube.

• Positive (Acid Only): The broth turns Yellow, but no gas bubble is present 

• Negative: The broth remains Red or turns slightly darker/pink, indicating the organism could not ferment Maltose.

Common Applications:

• Differentiating Proteus vulgaris (Maltose Positive) from Proteus mirabilis (Maltose Negative).

• Distinguishing Salmonella species (typically Maltose Positive) from other non-fermenters.

• Fermentation Test: Specific for Maltose metabolism.

• Gas Detection: Integrated Durham tube captures gas byproducts 

• Clear Readout: Distinct color change from Red to Yellow makes interpretation easy.

• Standard Volume: 8mL fill ensures sufficient medium for gas detection and pH buffering.

• Format: Sterile 8mL screw-cap tubes with inverted Durham tubes in a 10-pack.

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