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| Product Name | Bile Esculin Azide Agar (ISO 7899-2:2000) (Prepared Plate (@ 90 mm)) |
| Intended Use | For microbiological testing to detect and enumerate fecal streptococci in water samples |
| Preparation | Prepared agar plate |
| Plate Size | 90 mm diameter |
| Ingredients | Bile salts, Esculin, Sodium azide, Agar |
| PH Range | 7.0 - 7.5 |
| Incubation Conditions | 35-37°C for 48 hours |
| Enumeration Method | Counting of black colonies indicative of fecal streptococci |
| Selectivity | Inhibits growth of most bacteria except fecal streptococci |
| Sensitivity | Detects fecal streptococci at low concentrations |
| Positive Result | Formation of black colonies |
| Negative Result | No black colonies |
FAQ
What is Bile Esculin Agar used for in microbiology?
Bile Esculin Agar is commonly used for the isolation and differentiation of Group D Streptococci and Enterococci based on their ability to hydrolyze esculin in the presence of bile. This medium is particularly useful in clinical microbiology for the identification of these organisms in various samples.
What are the key components of Bile Esculin Agar?
Bile Esculin Agar contains esculin, bile salts, and ferric citrate as key components. Esculin serves as a substrate that can be hydrolyzed by certain bacteria, while bile salts inhibit the growth of gram-positive organisms other than Group D Streptococci and Enterococci. Ferric citrate acts as a color indicator to detect esculin hydrolysis.
How is Bile Esculin Agar prepared and used in microbiological testing?
Bile Esculin Agar is prepared by mixing the ingredients according to the manufacturer's instructions and pouring the media into petri dishes to solidify. Once the agar has set, it can be inoculated with a pure culture of the organism being tested. Incubate the plates at the appropriate temperature and observe for the characteristic blackening of the agar, indicating esculin hydrolysis.
What are the advantages of using Bile Esculin Agar in microbiology laboratories?
Bile Esculin Agar provides a simple and selective method for the identification of Group D Streptococci and Enterococci, which are clinically significant bacteria. The medium is easy to prepare and interpret, making it a valuable tool for routine microbial testing. Additionally, the blackening of the agar is a clear and visible indicator of esculin hydrolysis, allowing for rapid identification of the target organisms.
Are there any limitations or precautions to be aware of when using Bile Esculin Agar?
While Bile Esculin Agar is highly selective for Group D Streptococci and Enterococci, some strains may exhibit atypical reactions or variations in esculin hydrolysis. It is important to confirm results with additional tests or biochemical assays to ensure accurate identification. Additionally, care should be taken to properly store and handle the agar plates to prevent contamination and ensure optimal performance.
Bile Esculin Agar is commonly used for the isolation and differentiation of Group D Streptococci and Enterococci based on their ability to hydrolyze esculin in the presence of bile. This medium is particularly useful in clinical microbiology for the identification of these organisms in various samples.
What are the key components of Bile Esculin Agar?
Bile Esculin Agar contains esculin, bile salts, and ferric citrate as key components. Esculin serves as a substrate that can be hydrolyzed by certain bacteria, while bile salts inhibit the growth of gram-positive organisms other than Group D Streptococci and Enterococci. Ferric citrate acts as a color indicator to detect esculin hydrolysis.
How is Bile Esculin Agar prepared and used in microbiological testing?
Bile Esculin Agar is prepared by mixing the ingredients according to the manufacturer's instructions and pouring the media into petri dishes to solidify. Once the agar has set, it can be inoculated with a pure culture of the organism being tested. Incubate the plates at the appropriate temperature and observe for the characteristic blackening of the agar, indicating esculin hydrolysis.
What are the advantages of using Bile Esculin Agar in microbiology laboratories?
Bile Esculin Agar provides a simple and selective method for the identification of Group D Streptococci and Enterococci, which are clinically significant bacteria. The medium is easy to prepare and interpret, making it a valuable tool for routine microbial testing. Additionally, the blackening of the agar is a clear and visible indicator of esculin hydrolysis, allowing for rapid identification of the target organisms.
Are there any limitations or precautions to be aware of when using Bile Esculin Agar?
While Bile Esculin Agar is highly selective for Group D Streptococci and Enterococci, some strains may exhibit atypical reactions or variations in esculin hydrolysis. It is important to confirm results with additional tests or biochemical assays to ensure accurate identification. Additionally, care should be taken to properly store and handle the agar plates to prevent contamination and ensure optimal performance.
