Abstract: Microbiological systems for the automation of a microbiological laboratory including apparatus and methods for dilution of a microbiological sample, distribution of the sample to utilization devices, and application of the microbiological sample onto a growth medium in a sterile condition. In one embodiment, a fluid amplifier device is utilized for dilution of the microbiological sample and a fluid amplifier is also utilized for distribution of the diluted sample to a receiving well. In another embodiment, the microbiological sample is linearly applied to an elongated petri dish for subsequent incubation. Appropriate elongated petri dishes are described for use with such linear applications. A piston-cylinder arrangement is also provided for serial dilution of the samples.

Abstract: The present invention is directed to miniaturized, microbiological culture dishes, for example in the order of approximately 5 mm. in diameter and 5 mm. in depth, as well as a novel method and apparatus for cultivating the growth of bacteria. The culture dishes each contain a prepackaged culture medium and a sealed cover. In one embodiment the culture dishes are formed in an array on a frangible strip. The covers are removable to permit inoculation of the culture medium and are replaceable in a first condition to permit safe transport thereof. During incubation the covers are placed in a second condition to facilitate an indirect flow of air to the inoculated culture medium without allowing cross contamination between adjacent culture dishes. Several different dispensers are disclosed for transporting a plurality of culture dishes both before and after inoculation of the culture medium therein.