Preparing semi-solid media: required agar concentration In general microbiology, what percentage of agar is used to prepare semi-solid media (for example, motility tests) rather than firm solid media?

Introduction / Context:
Agar concentration determines the physical consistency of culture media. Semi-solid media are used to assess bacterial motility and to encourage microaerophilic growth, whereas solid plates promote well-isolated colonies. Knowing the correct agar percentage is a basic lab skill.

Given Data / Assumptions:

• Solid plates typically contain about 1.5% agar.
• Semi-solid media require softer gels that permit bacterial movement.
• Motility test media and certain transport media use reduced agar concentration.

Concept / Approach:

Semi-solid media are prepared with approximately 0.3–0.5% agar. This lower concentration creates a soft matrix that retains shape but allows motile cells to diffuse from the inoculation site. Concentrations above 1% yield firm gels that restrict movement and are not considered semi-solid.

Step-by-Step Solution:

Verification / Alternative check:

Standard motility media (for example, TTC motility agar) are commonly set at ~0.4% agar, confirming the “0.5% or less” guideline.

Why Other Options Are Wrong:

• 1.5–20%: 1.5% describes solid, not semi-solid; higher values are unrealistic.
• >10% and >10% but <20%: Far too high; not used in routine microbiology.
• 2.0–3.0%: Still firm solid, not semi-solid.

Common Pitfalls:

• Assuming that any agar below 1% is liquid; it is gel-like yet soft, which is intentional for motility assays.

Final Answer:

0.5% or less