glossary

lactobacillus

Definition lactobacillus

lactobacillus

lactobacillus n. a genus of Grampositive nonmotile rodlike bacteria capable of growth in acid media and of producing lactic acid from the fermentation of carbohydrates. They are found in fermenting animal and plant products, especially dairy products, and in the alimentary tract and vagina. They are responsible for the souring of milk and is associated with dental caries. It occurs in very high numbers in the faeces of breast- or bottle-fed infants.