Why is it important to isolate a single colony of bacteria from a chicken farm sample?

• A. To prevent the bacteria from growing on nutrient agar
• B. To ensure that subsequent analyses are performed on a genetically pure population
• C. To allow multiple species to be studied simultaneously without separation
• D. To increase the overall diversity of bacteria in the sample

Answer: (B)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Understand that a bacterial colony originates from a single bacterial cell that has multiplied, making the colony genetically uniform or pure.
2. Recognize that isolating a single colony ensures that any further tests or analyses are performed on a genetically consistent population, avoiding mixed or contaminated results.
3. Know that if multiple species or mixed populations are present, it becomes difficult to attribute observed characteristics or behaviors to a specific bacterium.
4. Realize that isolating single colonies allows microbiologists to study the properties, antibiotic susceptibility, and genetics of one bacterial strain at a time.
5. Conclude that this practice is essential for accurate identification, research, and treatment decisions related to bacterial samples from environments like a chicken farm.