What is the difference between Selective media and Differential media?


In relations to microbiology. My textbook doesn’t really give a clear answer. Can anyone explain this in simple terms?
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2 Responses

  1. Secret_05 Says:

    Yeah that is a good idea…

  2. novangelis Says:

    Selective media have additives that inhibit growth of some bacteria.
    Example: Bile Esculin Agar (BEA) contains additives that allow only enterococcus and strep group D to grow.

    Differential media have additives that indicate properties of some colonies.
    Example: Blood agar changes to indicate hemolysis

    Media can be both selective and differential.
    Example: MacConkey agar — bile salts and crystal violet inhibit growth of Gram-positive microrganisms; lactose and neutral red reveal lactose fermenters by a pink color change in the colony.

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