Open Question
A mixed culture of Escherichia coli and Penicillium chrysogenum is inoculated onto the following culture media. On which medium would you expect each to grow? Why?
a. 0.5% peptone in tap water
b. 10% glucose in tap water
10. Dynamics of Microbial Growth
Selective Media
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A type of culture medium that induces the growth of one particular organism in a mixed population of cells is:
A
Synthetic medium.
B
Specific culture medium.
C
Complex medium.
D
Selective medium.
Verified step by step guidance1
Understand the concept of a culture medium: A culture medium is a substance that provides the necessary nutrients for microorganisms to grow. It can be solid or liquid and is used in laboratories to cultivate bacteria, fungi, and other microorganisms.
Identify the types of culture media: There are several types of culture media, including synthetic, complex, and selective media. Each type serves a different purpose in microbiological studies.
Define selective medium: A selective medium is designed to favor the growth of specific microorganisms while inhibiting the growth of others. This is achieved by adding certain substances that suppress unwanted microbes or enhance the growth of desired ones.
Compare selective medium with other types: Synthetic media are chemically defined and contain known quantities of all ingredients. Complex media contain nutrients in unknown quantities, often derived from natural sources like yeast extract. Selective media, unlike these, are tailored to promote the growth of specific organisms in a mixed population.
Apply the concept: In the context of the problem, a selective medium is the correct choice because it induces the growth of one particular organism in a mixed population, distinguishing it from synthetic, specific, or complex media.
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