Abstract: Provided are membrane filters and methods of trapping, and culturing microorganisms. The membrane filters trap or filter from a sample a specific microorganism of interest requiring a set of growth components. The membrane comprises a first subset of the set of growth components such that the microorganism can grow and divide with the membrane contacting a medium comprising a second subset of the set of growth components defined as all components of the set of growth components not included in the first subset. Methods for detecting a microorganism comprise: (i) providing a membrane filter, comprising a first subset of the set of growth components; (ii) filtering a sample through the filter; and (iii) placing the filter in contact with a medium comprising a second subset of the set of components for growth. For members of genus Legionella a filter impregnated with activated charcoal may be employed for detection and culturing.

Abstract: Provided are devices, for testing a sample for a specific microorganism, including specific embodiments for determining presence of group B streptococcus, comprising: a first reservoir containing a selective broth and a second reservoir containing a selective agar comprising an indicator moiety, the selectivity being for the specific microorganism, and the indicator moiety being associated with a measurable property change in the presence of the specific microorganism or attribute; and a conduit fluidically connecting the two reservoirs, the conduit having a valve, having an open position and a closed position initially positioned in the closed position. The sample is introduced into the first reservoir and the device is incubated at a first specified temperature for a first incubation period. The valve is then opened to introduce the contents of the first reservoir into the second reservoir and the device is then incubated at a specified temperature for a second incubation period.