PHENOTYPIC AND GENOTYPIC IDENTIFICATION OF METHICILLIN RESISTANT STAPHYLOCOCCUS SPECIES FROM FRUITS

Abstract

Staphylococcus is one of the most predominant pathogen that impacts major serious health issues. The present study is to
evaluate the presence of Staphylococcus sp. in locally available fruits such as grape, watermelon, musk melon and
gooseberry. About 30 bacterial strains were isolated, enriched and grown in Mannitol Salt Agar (MSA). Biochemical
characterization and confirmatory tests like Rapid MRSA agar test and Baird Parker agar tests were screened and tests
confirmed as Staphylococcus sp. Antibiotic susceptibility test was checked using multiple drug discs (12 antibiotics) and
single discs (Methicillin, Mupirocin) by disc diffusion method. Further biofilm acticity was evaluated using crystal violet
test tube and congo red agar method. Genotypic identification of isolates were done using gap, nuc, mec for culture
identification and eno, icaA, icaD primers for confirmation of biofilm production that resulted in showing all 30 isolates
answered for eno, icaA, icaD primers which confirmed as biofilm producers and serious pathogen. Therefore we could
elucidate that the pathogenic strains were adhesive on to the fruits due to improper handling; so as the study concluding
that serious measures has to be taken while processing and consuming fruits as they tend to be a threat to human beings as
a serious food pathogen.