Aeromonas species - Overview

Transmission electromicrograph of Aeromonas salmonicida. A = A layer, OM = bacterial outer membrane, R = rigid layer, PM = plasma membrane, B = pililike appendages. (Rocco C. Cipriano 2001, Wikimedia commons)

Overview

Aeromonas are Gram negative, rod shaped bacteria that are found in aquatic environments. They are opportunistic pathogens and can be found in fresh water and the oral cavity, and skin of fish and reptiles. A major disease associated with Aeromonas is gastroenteritis.

Characterisitics

The bacteria are motile, straight rods. They are catalase and oxidase positive and are facultative anaerobes. They are able to grow on non-enriched media, although a NaCl supplementation is required for Vibrio species. Aeromonas morphologically resemble the Enterobacteriaceae family.

Diagnosis

Aeromonas can be identified by isolation from lesions. The bacteria is widespread in environments and can therefore be difficult to detect.

Treatment

Treat with antibiotics including Cephalosporins.