General description
A reagent to detect the enzymes catalase and peroxidase. Catalase and peroxidase is found in most aerobe bacteria. They catalyse the breakdown of hydrogem peroxide with the release of free oxygen (resulting in bubbles).The classical test for differentiating staphylococci (positive) from streptococci (negative).To observe the action of the enzymes, catalase reagent is added to a pure bacterial culture. Any immediate bubbling is indicative of a positive result since oxygen is a by-product of hydrogen peroxide decomposition. The test is also useful in differentiating Gram positive bacilli.