Lactococcus lactis

**Semantic type:** Bacterium

**Definition:** A species of Gram positive, cocci shaped, lactic acid bacteria assigned to the phylum Firmicutes. This species is nonmotile, catalase negative, nonsporulating and produces lactic acid from lactose fermentation. L lactis may be an opportunistic pathogen in humans and animals. Most significantly this microorganism is used commercially in the production of buttermilk and cheese.

**Synonyms:** - LACTOCOCCUS LACTIS - LACTOCOCCUS LACTIS