'''Pediococcus''' is a genus of
Gram-positive lactic acid bacteria, placed within the family of
Lactobacillaceae. They usually occur in pairs or tetrads, and are the only lactic acid cocci that divide along two planes of symmetry. They are purely
homofermentative. ''Pediococcus'' bacteria are usually considered contaminants of
beer and
wine although their presence is sometimes desired in beer styles such as
Lambic. Certain ''Pediococcus'' isolates produce
diacetyl which gives a
buttery or
butterscotch aroma to some wines (such as
Chardonnay) and a few styles of beer. ''Pediococcus'' species are often used in
silage inoculants.
See also
★
Brettanomyces
★
Lactobacillus