beta-hemolysis

Introduction

Zone of complete or true hemolysis observed in blood agar cultures of various bacteria. Virtually all of the erythrocytes are lysed in a wide, regularly circumscribed, circular zone around the colony, resulting in a clear halo of transparent agar. The zone of hemolysis is frequently much wider than the colony.

Etiology

• bacteria causing beta-hemolysis in blood agar include:
  • Streptococci
  • Staphylococci

More general terms

• hemolysis

Additional terms

• beta-hemolytic streptococcus
• Staphylococcus