Culture of Microorganisms

Spread Plate Technique

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Learn how to prepare a spread plate by following a stepwise virtual lab protocol. Explore good aseptic technique, lid positioning, spread technique and sterilisation of an L-shaped spreader. Review the results of the spread plate.

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Learning Outcomes

Familiarise yourself with the equipment required to prepare a spread plate
Perform the spread plate technique, focussing on key steps required to achieve an even distribution of bacteria across the entire plate
Understand the precautions that must be taken to ensure you work safely and with good aseptic technique

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Skills

Using Instruments and Equipment

What equipment is required to spread bacteria on an agar plate
Why plates should be labelled on their base and what it should detail
How to flame the neck of the culture bottle and spreader
How to transfer and spread a bacterial culture onto an agar plate
Why working under a bunsen burner and flaming the neck of the culture bottle helps reduce contamination
How to handle the equipment to reduce the risk of contamination
Why the spreader should not be used to spread bacteria while it is hot

Obtaining and Recording Data

Why the bacteria must be evenly spread across the agar plate
Why the sample should be spread immediately after it has been transferred
Why plates should be placed upside down in the incubator

Working in a Safe Manner

Why care must be taken when flaming the neck of the bottle
How to reduce the risk of burning yourself when sterilising the spreader

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Prof Nicky King

University of Exeter

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Details

Degrees

Biochemistry

Biomedical Science

Forensic Science

Pharmacological Science

Biological Science

Modules

Molecular Biology & Genetics

Microbiology

Topic

Culture of Microorganisms

Purchase option

Bioscience LabSim Library

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