Burkholderia species is a dangerous and highly virulent organism that can cause laboratory-acquired infections. It should not be manipulated on an open bench.
Catalase: Both organisms are catalase positive. Catalase testing must be performed with extreme caution in a biosafety cabinet (BSC) due to the creation of aerosols.
Oxidase:
- B. mallei: Oxidase variable
- B. pseudomallei: Oxidase positive
Indole: Both organisms are indole negative
Motility:
- B. mallei: Non-motile
- B. pseudomallei: Motile
