noun
- A genus of spherical bacteria found in the intestines of humans and animals, some species of which can cause infections.
Usage: medical/scientific term; usually used in singular or plural form 'enterococci'; commonly abbreviated as 'E. faecalis' or 'E. faecium' when referring to specific species
Examples
- Enterococcus bacteria are commonly found in wastewater and are used as indicators of fecal contamination.
- The patient developed a urinary tract infection caused by enterococcus.
- Enterococci are resistant to many antibiotics, making them difficult to treat.
- Water quality tests often screen for enterococcus to ensure safety for swimming.
- Some enterococcus species are used in the production of fermented foods like cheese and yogurt.