XLD Agar

XLD Agar is used for isolating and differentiation of Gram-negative enteric bacteria.

Principles this medium, Yeast Extract provides the nitrogenous sources and carbohydrates required for bacterial growth. Sodium Chloride supplies electrolytes and maintains osmotic equilibrium. Xylose, Lactose and Sucrose are the fermentable carbohydrates, being the former utilized by most enteric bacteria except for Shigella and Providencia spp. Upon Xylose depletion, Salmonella (but not non-pathogen Xylose fermenters) decarboxylates L-Lysine and reverts the pH acidification due to carbohydrate fermentation. Phenol Red serves as pH indicator. Sodium Thiosulfate and Ferric Ammonium Citrate detect hydrogen sulfide formation in alkaline conditions.