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Bioterrorism: Agents of Concern

Bacillus anthracis

	Colony Characteristics After 12-24 hour incubation @ 35-37°C on SBA, well isolated colonies are approximately 2-5 mm in diameter. Colonies have "tenacious consistency" and "ground-glass" appearance. Organism is rapid grower on most standard media, including SBA and CHOC. Bacillus anthracis does not grow on MAC. Microscopic Encapsulated large gram-positive rods that form in chains. Non-Motile Catalase Positive Non-hemolytic Aerobic Spore forming

Colony Characteristics

After 12-24 hour incubation @ 35-37°C on SBA, well isolated colonies are approximately 2-5 mm in diameter.
Colonies have "tenacious consistency" and "ground-glass" appearance.
Organism is rapid grower on most standard media, including SBA and CHOC.
Bacillus anthracis does not grow on MAC.

Microscopic

Encapsulated large gram-positive rods that form in chains.

Non-Motile
Catalase Positive
Non-hemolytic
Aerobic
Spore forming

Refer to the ASM Sentinel Level Clinical Guidelines. If Bacillus cereus biovar anthracis cannot be ruled out, contact the BTEP Unit Duty Phone 24/7 at (919) 807-8600.

DHHS 5010: BT and Emerging Pathogens Clinical Form

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Updated: August 5, 2026