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(left) α-hemolysis (S. mitis);
(middle) β-hemolysis (S. pyogenes);
(right) γ- hemolysis (= non-hemolytic, S. salivarius)
Hemolysis (from Greek αιμόλυση, meaning 'blood breakdown') is the breakdown of red blood cells. The ability of bacterial colonies to induce hemolysis when grown on blood agar is used to classify certain microorganisms. This is particularly useful in classifying streptococcal species. A substance that causes hemolysis is called a hemolysin.