Culture Media
Culture Media Culture media are substances used to grow microorganisms in the laboratory. A successful culture medium must: Provide essential nutrients (carbon, nitrogen, minerals) Maintain proper pH and osmotic pressure Supply adequate moisture Neutralize toxic metabolic products 2. Classification of Culture Media A. Based on Chemical Composition 1. Chemically Defined Media (Synthetic Media) Culture media in which the exact chemical composition is completely known . These media typically contain a defined carbon source , most commonly glucose. A nitrogen source , is included for the synthesis of amino acids and nucleotides. M ineral salts like magnesium, potassium, iron, and phosphates, which are essential for enzyme function, osmotic balance, and cellular metabolism. A buffering system , is included to maintain a stable pH, and water acts as the solvent for all biochemical reactions. In some cases, small amounts of vitamins or amino acids may be added if the organism requires them. ...