Clostridium perfringens [Gk, kloster, spindle] , a species of anaerobic gram-positive bacteria capable of causing gas gangrene and food poisoning in humans and various digestive and urinary tract diseases in livestock. The oval spores of the bacteria are found in the soil and in the intestinal tracts of humans and animals. It is the third most common form of food poisoning in the United States, Canada, and the United Kingdom. Incubation time is 6 to 24 hours, usually 10 to 12 hours. Symptoms include abdominal cramps and diarrhea. Vomiting is rare. Also called Clostridium welchii.
