Abstract: The specimen container comprises a cap, a body and a connector. The cap has an inner surface defining a hollow. The body includes a vial having a rim and an opening bounded by the rim. The connector couples the cap and body in a manner which permits cap movement between a fully-seated position on the vial, to form a sealed specimen container; and a position apart from the opening, to permit ingress to the vial. The connector can be adapted such that, in use, when the cap is disposed at the position apart from the opening, and in the absence of external forces, the connector holds the cap at the position apart from the opening. Snap-fit intermediate positions of the cap can be provided between the position apart from the opening and the fully-seated position and the cap can be adapted to reduce evaporative losses when intermediately positioned.

Abstract: A transport media, particularly for fastidious microorganisms, has a concentration of activated charcoal less than 10 grams per liter of water. This maintains viability of the microorganisms while permitting Gram interpretation of the specimen.

Abstract: Apparatus is disclosed and comprises a cap, a body and a connector. The cap has an inner surface defining a hollow. The body includes a vial having a rim and an opening bounded by the rim. The connector couples the cap and body in a manner which permits cap movement between a fully-seated position on the vial, to form a sealed specimen container; and a position apart from the opening, to permit ingress to the vial. The connector can be adapted such that, in use, when the cap is disposed at the position apart from the opening, and in the absence of external forces, the connector holds the cap at the position apart from the opening. Snap-fit intermediate positions of the cap can be provided between the position apart from the opening and the fully-seated position and the cap can be adapted to reduce evaporative losses when intermediately positioned.