The bacterial flora of the dohyo (sumo ring) has received little attention. If the flora are identified then treatment or prevention of any bacteriallesions or infections incurred by the wrestlers is possible. In the present study, using the automatic identification kit, the VITEK Auto Microbic System or Automatic Tests in Bacteriology, we describe the bacterial flora found in the dohyo over the four seasons of the year. Anaerobic bacteria, such as Clostridium tetani, were found, a possible source of serious infection. The exotoxin formed by Clostridium tetani, the causative agent of lockjaw tetanic spasm, is also neurotoxin. Nippon Sport Science University's dohyo is not a possible. source of infection by the spores of Clostridium tetani as the dohyo in the University is well maintained.
