Retardation of wool growth in Merino sheep caused by bacteria

A condition evidenced by retarded growth of wool with alteration of the yolk into a yellow, sticky, wax-like substance was investigated. The condition was associated with hyperaemia and cellular infiltration into the dermis in the affected areas. Three bacterial species, viz. Enterobacter aerogenes, E. agglomerans and Hafnia alvei, which could grow on the water-extractable component of wool-yolk, were incriminated as the cause of the condition.