The group concludes that the organsm that has been isolated is definitely a member of the genus Vibrio, and possibly the bioluminescent species V. fischeri.  Our original hypothesis and goal to isolate an extreme halophile was not met.  However, the group has been able to successfully isolate a salt-tolerant organism with interesting properties from a marine source.  Therefore, the modified hypothesis is supported.  All the results of the tests were consistent with those that would be expected from an organism of this sort, specifically the genus Vibrio.  The original enrichment method was grossely modified (ie- completely redone) as the group switched project focus, media, and animal sources several times.

    The data that was collected by the group indicates that the organism of interest was indeed detected.  This bacteria grew very well on both saltwater media and T-soy media (without salt), indicating that it is salt-tolerant.  The cell morphology, Gram negative rods, also indicates that this species is a member of the genus Vibrio.  Tests also indicated that the organism is able to ferment, tolerates oxygen, and is motile.  Combined with the growth in the absence of yeast extract on the seawater plates and the dull orange colors on T-soy plates is especially indicative of the species V. fischeri.

    This organism is also useful ecologically.  If the isolated bacteria is indeed V. fischeri, it glows in the dark when immersed in a proper environment.  These bacteria grow on certain types of fish and are helpful in many of the life processes of their host organisms.  The hosts use the bioluminescent properties to recognize their surroundings as well as in signalling other orgnisms.
 
 

    This organism has numerous interesting characteristics.  It is able to grow in relatively high concentrations of salt as well as media without any salt, which makes it salt tolerant and therefore it is able to grow in a wide range of environments.  It is also capable of fermentation, yet is tolerant of oxygen, which also allows it to grow in varied environments.  The group also speculates that the bacteria is bioluminescent and speaks French (just kidding- but wouldn't that be cool?).  If capable of bioluminescence, the bacteria also has numerous ecological benefits outlined above.

    The isolation of this organism is significant because it glows in the dark under the proper conditions and at high enough concentrations.  It also demonstrates that the group is capable of using the methods we have acquired throughout the course of the semester to isolate organisms of choice.  The final protocol that was derived by the group (Phase II) is also useful because is allows for the isolation of some members of the genus Vibrio (all except V. angullarium, V. marinus, and V. logei) from marine environments in a timely fashion.