Hektoen Enteric Agar (HEA) : S Indicator: Ferric Ammonium Citrate (Producing Black Precipitate Due
Hektoen Enteric Agar (HEA) : S Indicator: Ferric Ammonium Citrate (Producing Black Precipitate Due
Serotyping
Identifies strains (serovars or serotypes) of bacteria that differ in their
antigenic composition (Somatic O, flagellar H, capsular K antigens)
Commonly tested organism: Salmonella, Shigella, and E. coli O157:H7
(Enterohemorrhagic E. coli)
Preferred medium for testing: 5% Sheep BA
Uses specific monoclonal antibodies directed against specific antigens
found in the strains and agglutination indicating positive reaction.