Further development of simple tests to differentiate the legionellas

Current methods for the identification of the Legionellaceae to species level are suitable only for the specialist or research laboratory. As part of a continuing taxonomic study 42 simple biochemical tests were screened for their ability to differentiate species of Legionella. Only 23 of these were of practical use. These tests are able to differentiate 21 of 23 recognized species of Legionella and six new species. Phenotypic screening with these tests may prove useful to the routine microbiologist and be a viable alternative to identification techniques currently employed.