key term - Candle jar

Definition

A candle jar is a sealed container used to create a microaerophilic environment by consuming oxygen and increasing carbon dioxide levels through the burning of a candle. This method is commonly used for culturing bacteria that require specific oxygen conditions.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Candle jars are often employed to grow capnophiles, which are bacteria that thrive in high CO2 environments.
2. The jar must be airtight to effectively alter the atmospheric conditions inside it.
3. Burning the candle reduces the oxygen concentration to about 3-5% and increases carbon dioxide levels to around 8-10%.
4. Common examples of bacteria cultured in candle jars include Streptococcus pneumoniae and Neisseria species.
5. Candle jars are an economical and straightforward alternative to more complex gas-generating systems.

Review Questions

Related terms

Microaerophiles:

Bacteria that require lower levels of oxygen than are present in the atmosphere.

Capnophiles:

Microorganisms that thrive in high concentrations of carbon dioxide.

Anaerobic Jar:

A device used to create an environment devoid of oxygen, typically using chemical reactions or gas packs.