Oatmeal Agar

Intended Use

Oatmeal Agar is used for cultivating fungi, particularly for macrospore formation.

Summary and Explanation

Fungi are extremely successful organisms, as evidenced by their ubiquity in nature. Of the estimated 250,000 species, fewer than 150 are known primary pathogens of humans.1
Identification and classification of fungi is primarily based on the morphologic differences in their reproductive structures.2 Fungi reproduce by producing spores.2 Large, multi-celled spores are called macroconidia, macroaleuriospores or macrospores and are produced by aerial sporulation.2 The detection of fungi is a great concern in the pharmaceutical, food and cosmetic industry.

Principles of the Procedure

Oatmeal is a source of nitrogen, carbon, protein and nutrients. Agar is the solidifying agent.

User Quality Control

Identity Specifications
Oatmeal Agar
Dehydrated Appearance: Beige, nonhomogeneous, may be slightly lumpy.
Solution:                       7.25% solution, soluble in purified water upon
                                    boiling with frequent agitation. Solution is offwhite,
                                    opaque with nonhomogeneous particles.
Prepared Appearance:    Off-white, opaque appearance with nonhomogeneous particles.
Reaction of 7.25%
Solution at 25°C:           pH 6.0 ± 0.2
Cultural Response
Oatmeal Agar
Prepare the medium per label directions. Inoculate and incubate at 30 ± 2°C for 18-72 hours.

Formula

Oatmeal Agar
Approximate Formula* Per Liter
Oatmeal..................................................................... 60.0 g
Agar.......................................................................... 12.5 g
*Adjusted and/or supplemented as required to meet performance criteria.

Directions for Preparation from Dehydrated Product

1. Suspend 72.5 g of the powder in 1 L of purified water. Mix thoroughly.
2. Heat with frequent agitation and boil for 1 minute to completely dissolve the powder.
3. Autoclave at 121°C for 15 minutes.
4. Test samples of the finished product for performance using stable, typical control cultures.

Procedure

Consult appropriate references for specific procedures on the isolation and cultivation of fungi.

Expected Results

Refer to appropriate references and procedures for results

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