Bacteria may be stored for several months
A) on a slant in the refrigerator, frozen in agar AND in broth at 37°C.
B) in broth at 37°C, on a slant in the refrigerator AND frozen in glycerol solution.
C) on a slant in the refrigerator, frozen in glycerol solution, AND freeze-dried.
D) freeze-dried, in broth at 37°C AND frozen in agar.
E) freeze-dried, frozen in glycerol solution AND in broth at 37°C.

Question

Bacteria may be stored for several months
A) on a slant in the refrigerator, frozen in agar AND in broth at 37°C.
B) in broth at 37°C, on a slant in the refrigerator AND frozen in glycerol solution.
C) on a slant in the refrigerator, frozen in glycerol solution, AND freeze-dried.
D) freeze-dried, in broth at 37°C AND frozen in agar.
E) freeze-dried, frozen in glycerol solution AND in broth at 37°C.

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Bacteria can be stored for several months by methods that preserve their viability without allowing them to grow or mutate significantly. Storing them on a slant in the refrigerator, freezing them in a glycerol solution, and freeze-drying are all effective methods for long-term storage. Glycerol acts as a cryoprotectant to protect cells during freezing, and freeze-drying (lyophilization) removes water, thus preserving the bacteria for extended periods.

Bacteria May Be Stored for Several Months