Why Catalase Test Is Done?

The catalase test is a particularly important test used to determine whether a gram-positive cocci is a staphylococci or a streptococci. Catalase is an enzyme that converts hydrogen peroxide to water and oxygen gas. ... If bubbles appear (due to the production of oxygen gas) the bacteria are catalase positive.

What is the purpose of the catalase test?

The catalase test facilitates the detection of the enzyme catalase in bacteria. It is essential for differentiating catalase- positive Micrococcaceae from catalase-negative Streptococcaceae.

What is catalase and why is it important?

Catalase is one of the most important antioxidant enzymes. As it decomposes hydrogen peroxide to innocuous products such as water and oxygen, catalase is used against numerous oxidative stress-related diseases as a therapeutic agent.