What is a notable characteristic of Pseudomonas aeruginosa?

Pseudomonas aeruginosa is notably recognized for its grape-like odor, which is attributed to the production of volatile compounds, particularly 2-aminoacetophenone. This distinctive smell is often described as sweet or fruity, and it serves as a helpful trait for identification in clinical and laboratory settings.

In addition to its characteristic odor, Pseudomonas aeruginosa is known for its resistance to various antibiotics and its ability to thrive in diverse environments. These traits contribute to its prevalence as an opportunistic pathogen, particularly in immunocompromised individuals. The identification of the grape-like odor can assist microbiologists in differentiating this organism from other pathogens, especially in cases of infections in healthcare settings.

While the other characteristics mentioned in the options are associated with different organisms, such as red pigment production or spore formation, they do not pertain to Pseudomonas aeruginosa. This bacterium does not form spores and is classified as gram-negative, not gram-positive, which reinforces the focus on the grape-like odor as a defining characteristic.