Mycobacteria on Lowenstein–Jensen medium — Which species produces eugonic (luxuriant) growth on L–J medium under standard conditions?

Introduction / Context:
Lowenstein–Jensen (L–J) medium is a classic egg-based medium used for culturing mycobacteria. Understanding which species grow luxuriantly (eugonic) versus poorly (dysgonic) aids in preliminary identification of members of the Mycobacterium tuberculosis complex.

Given Data / Assumptions:

• Eugonic growth = abundant, rapid colony development relative to other complex members.
• We compare M. tuberculosis to M. bovis under standard incubation.
• Other conditions (e.g., additives) are not considered unless routinely used.

Concept / Approach:
Mycobacterium tuberculosis is eugonic on L–J medium, producing rough, buff, non-pigmented colonies. In contrast, M. bovis is generally dysgonic, showing sparse growth and sometimes requiring special supplementation. This growth difference, while not definitive alone, is a recognized laboratory clue during species differentiation within the M. tuberculosis complex.

Step-by-Step Solution:

Verification / Alternative check:
Biochemical tests (e.g., niacin accumulation positive in M. tuberculosis) and molecular assays confirm species identity beyond growth characteristics.

Why Other Options Are Wrong:

• M. bovis: typically dysgonic; not luxuriant on L–J medium.
• Both/None: contradict established growth patterns used in preliminary ID.

Common Pitfalls:
Overinterpreting colony size alone without accounting for incubation time and inoculum size; always corroborate with further tests.

Final Answer:
Mycobacterium tuberculosis