Distribution of <i>Clostridium botulinum</i> type E in the Gulf of St. Lawrence in relation to the physical environment

Abstract

Analysis of 390 sediment samples from the Gulf of St. Lawrence and the lower reaches of the St. Lawrence River showed C. botulinum type E to be present in high incidence in some areas while it appeared to be absent from others. No other types of C. botulinum were encountered. The observed distribution of type E could be correlated with patterns of terrigenous sedimentation in the region.