For detection and enumeration of faecal Streptococci from water samples by membrane filtration technique.The composition and performance criteria of this medium are as per the specifications laid down in ISO/DIS 7899 -2: 2000.
Slanetz and Bartley Medium is recommended for detection and enumeration of faecal Streptococci by membrane filter technique. The composition and performance criteria are in accordance with ISO/DIS 7899-2, 1984. The medium is highly selective for Enterococci. Sodium azide inhibits gram-negative organisms. Triphenyl Tetrazolium Chloride is reduced to the insoluble formazan inside the bacterial cell forming dark red-coloured colonies. When the medium is incubated at higher temperature (44-45°C), all red or maroon colonies can be considered as presumptive Enterococci. Enterococcus faecalis grows luxuriantly as red or maroon colonies while Escherichia coli is inhibited on this medium.