LACTOBACILLUS

a genus of rod-shaped, gram-positive, non-spore-forming bacteria of the family Lactobacillaceae, widely distributed in animal feeds, silage, manure, and milk and milk products. Lactobacillus delbrueckii, a typical species, is 0.5 to 0.8 micrometre (mm; 1 mm = 10-6 metre) across by 2 to 9 mm long and occurs singly or in small chains. Various species of Lactobacillus are used commercially during the production of sour milks, cheeses, and yogurt. Lactobacilli have an important role in the manufacture of fermented vegetables (pickles and sauerkraut), beverages (beer, wine, and juices), sourdough breads, and some sausages. Lactobacilli are commensal inhabitants of animal and human intestinal tracts. Commercial preparations of lactobacilli are used to restore normal intestinal flora after the imbalance created by antibiotic therapy.