MN AGAR

Leptothrix is a sheathed filamentous bacterium that can generally be found in different types of aquatic environments with sufficient organic matter. Leptothrix bacteria are known to be capable of oxidizing both iron (II) and manganese (II), unlike other sheathed bacteria. These belong to the group of nuisance organisms which have the ability to transform or deposit significant amount of iron, usually in the form of objectionable slimes. Iron bacteria (Leptothrix) may cause, or be associated with, fouling and plugging of wells. They also cause odour, taste, frothing, colour and increases turbidity in waters. Mn Agar is formulated in accordance with APHA and is used as a differential medium based on the ability of Leptothrix species to oxidize manganous ion.

for detection of Leptothrix by its ability to oxidize manganese ions