When attempting to determine viable cell counts of a heat-sensitive bacterial isolate, which cell counting method should be avoided?
A) spread-plate method
B) pour-plate method
C) live staining and direct counting with a microscope
D) both spread- and pour-plate methods

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The pour-plate method involves mixing bacteria with melted agar and then allowing it to solidify. This process can expose heat-sensitive bacteria to potentially lethal temperatures, making it less suitable for counting viable cells of such isolates compared to other methods that do not involve heat.

When Attempting to Determine Viable Cell Counts of a Heat-Sensitive