Optimal enrichment time for isolation of Vibrio parahaemolyticus from seafood

Abstract

The growth of Vibrio parahaemolyticus in a liquid medium was compared with that of human fecal flora and estuarine flora. No marked differences were noted between growth at 25 and 37°C for V. parahaemolyticus. However, the marine organisms were strongly inhibited when incubated at 37° C. Incubation for 8 h in an enrichment broth yielded V. parahaemolyticus growth, even with a small inoculum, whereas the marine and fecal floras were inhibited. Therefore, enrichment for 8 h at 37°C appears to be optimal for isolation of V. parahaemolyticus, permitting more rapid results in seafood analysis.