🦠microbiology review
Enrichment culture
Written by the Fiveable Content Team • Last updated September 2025
Written by the Fiveable Content Team • Last updated September 2025
Definition
Enrichment culture is a technique used to enhance the growth of specific microorganisms in a mixed sample by providing favorable conditions. It selectively encourages the proliferation of desired bacteria while inhibiting others.
5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test
- Enrichment culture involves the use of selective media that supports the growth of specific microorganisms and suppresses others.
- It is commonly used in research to isolate and study bacteria with particular metabolic capabilities or environmental adaptations.
- Conditions such as pH, temperature, and nutrient availability are adjusted to favor the target microorganism.
- Enrichment cultures can help identify microorganisms involved in processes like nitrogen fixation, sulfur reduction, or hydrocarbon degradation.
- The process may require several subcultures to increase the relative abundance of the desired microorganism before it can be isolated.