Which of the following best describes the purpose of the casease test in microbiology?

• A. To test for the presence of endospores in bacterial cells
• B. To determine if a microorganism can hydrolyze casein, a milk protein
• C. To identify bacteria that produce the enzyme catalase
• D. To detect the ability of bacteria to ferment lactose

Answer: (B)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Understand that the casease test is designed to detect the ability of a microorganism to produce the enzyme casease, which hydrolyzes casein, a milk protein.
2. Recall that casein is the protein that gives milk its white color, and when casease breaks it down, the medium becomes clear or transparent around bacterial growth.
3. Recognize that this test is not related to detecting endospores, which requires different staining techniques, nor is it related to catalase production or lactose fermentation.
4. Note that catalase tests detect the enzyme catalase by observing bubble formation when hydrogen peroxide is added, and lactose fermentation tests detect acid or gas production from lactose metabolism.
5. Conclude that the casease test specifically identifies bacteria capable of hydrolyzing casein, which helps differentiate certain bacterial species based on their enzymatic activity.