The phagovar variability of Listeria strains under the influence of virulent and temperate bacteriophages

Abstract

Selected strains of Listeria spp. were challenged against a variety of bacteriophages usually employed for phage typing. The resistant mutants derived were characterized by the loss of sensitivity to defined groups of phages. When different phages were used in succession multiple mutants could be obtained. They eventually became insensitive to all phages employed. Our results indicate the possibility of shifting phagovars among Listeria strains grown in mixed culture, due to the potential action of free bacteriophages. Copyright © 1991, Wiley Blackwell. All rights reserved