Which carbohydrate fermentation result is typically associated with Yersinia enterocolitica on KIA agar?

Yersinia enterocolitica typically produces a K/A reaction on Kligler's Iron Agar (KIA). This means that the organism ferments glucose while not fermenting lactose. The “K” indicates an alkaline reaction in the slant due to the utilization of amino acids and peptones, which results in a pink color, while the “A” indicates an acid reaction in the butt due to the fermentation of glucose, resulting in a yellow color.

The ability of Yersinia enterocolitica to ferment glucose but not lactose is crucial for its identification and differentiation from other enteric organisms. This characteristic helps microbiologists utilize KIA agar as a diagnostic tool in distinguishing Yersinia enterocolitica from other members of its family.