Black rot in eggs is a spoilage caused by the growth of certain bacteria. One of the most common bacteria responsible for black rot in eggs is Proteus melanovogenes. This bacterium produces a black coloration in the egg due to the production of sulfur compounds.
- Serratia species: While Serratia species are associated with other forms of spoilage, they do not typically cause black rot in eggs.
- Proteus melanovogenes: Correct! This bacterium is the primary cause of black rot in eggs due to its production of sulfur compounds, which cause the black coloration.
- Alcaligenes: Alcaligenes species are involved in spoilage, but they are not known to cause black rot in eggs.
- Flavobacterium: Flavobacterium species are also associated with spoilage in food but are not the cause of black rot in eggs.
Thus, the correct answer is (2) Proteus melanovogenes.