Numerical taxonomy of catalase-negative cocci isolated from frozen vegetables

Abstract

Taxonomic data for 135 cultures of bacteria isolated from frozen snap beans and whole kernel corn were analyzed by computer. Of the isolates, 79% were grouped into five major clusters. Two of the groups consisted of leuconostocs, whereas the other three contained homofermentative types. The intergroup similarities suggested a generic level of similarity. Feature frequencies for the groups were calculated, and properties of the different groups are presented. Many of the isolates differed from described species.