Agar-Agar, also known as Bacteriological Agar, is a polysaccharide derived from seaweed with unique properties that make it invaluable in microbiology. This substance does not dissolve in cold water but readily dissolves in boiling water. Additionally, agar solidifies between 32-40 °C and maintains its firmness within the temperature range suitable for microorganisms’ growth.
Moreover, agar exhibits remarkable resistance to breakdown in culture media when exposed to enzymes secreted by microorganisms. This property ensures that the integrity of the media is maintained throughout the microbial cultivation process.
Furthermore, agar is widely used as a solidifying agent in petri dishes for cultivating bacteria, yeasts, and molds. Bacteriological agar’s ability to form a gel-like matrix provides a solid surface for microbial colonies to grow, making them easily observed and analyzed.
In summary, Agar-Agar, or Bacteriological Agar, is a polysaccharide derived from seaweed. Its unique properties, such as its solubility characteristics and resistance to enzyme breakdown, make it an indispensable component in microbiology. Its use as a solidifying agent in culture media allows for the growth and observation of microorganisms, making it a fundamental tool in laboratory settings.
Agar is used in different concentrations for different purposes.
| 1-1.5 % | For solidifying culture media |
| 0.5 % | For motility studies |
| 0.1 % | For growth of anaerobes |
Shelf life and storage
Store Agra-Agar below 30 °C in a tightly closed container. Keep away from heat and humidity. Under these conditions it has a shelf life of 5 years from the date of production.
