Abstract

Morphological changes of spores of Bacillus subtilis 604 during germination were investigated by phase contrast, interference contrast, environmental electron microscopy and light scattering. Dormant, phase bright spores displayed no significant size difference to germinated, phase-dark spores. After completion of an optical phase change, collapse of the whole spore structure was observed by interference contrast. Similar morphological changes were seen by environmental electron scanning microscopy where phase bright spores appeared as rods and phase dark spores displayed a dark, collapsed halo in the centre. Microscopical techniques and light scattering indicated further no significant swelling of spores during germination. Outgrowth of vegetative cells was monitored with individual spores by light microscopy. Interference contrast was more suitable than phase contrast to study outgrowth stages because of better differentiation between germinated spores, outgrowing cells and residual spore coats.

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