Microscopy of Air/Water Biofilms in the Undergraduate Laboratory: A Simple Collection Kit with Multiple Applications

 

Margaret Henk

Tested Studies in Laboratory Teaching, 2003, Volume 24

Abstract

Naturally occurring air/water interface biofilms are ubiquitous, but largely unexplored. They provide ideal samples for introductory microscopy and microbiology. This activity introduces a simple method for collecting samples from nature or the lab and gives detailed instructions on preparing a simple collecting kit and optimum viewing with student microscopes. Useful features of this activity include: the ideal nature of a wide assortment of ubiquitous air/water interface biofilms for microscopy, the ease of preparing the collection slide and collecting the biofilm, economy, efficiency, and success rate, as well as hands-on discovery opportunities, new concepts in microbiology, and high student interest level.

Keywords:  ecology, microbiology, microscopy, biofilm, Gram stain, discovery

Louisiana State University (2002)