How to Identify Bacillus Subtilis

Bacillus subtilis is a naturally occurring substance. It is found throughout the natural environment, but never in the human body -- although it can be beneficial to the human body, especially in combating such diseases as dysentery. At the same time, in rare instances, it can cause food poisoning, although this is not common. Bacillus subtilis is most commonly found in the soil, so chances are high that it exists in your home garden. Even though you might not be a professional biologist, identifying a strain of Bacillus subtilis is a relatively straightforward process, given the presence of a microscope.

Things You'll Need

• Microscope
• Bacillus subtilis sample

Show More

Instructions

1. • 1

     Place the Bacillus subtilis sample under the microscope. Look through the microscope.

   • 2

     Note the shape of the substance. Bacillus subtilis is a bacterium that comes shaped like a rod.

   • 3

     Observe the color of the same. Bacillus subtilis comes in shades of cream and brown.