Abstract: A microbial culture transport apparatus comprising an open top receptacle having a first open-top culture device receiving area for receiving a culture sample and at least a second container retaining area, a cover for the receptacle, and a rupturable container in the second area containing a material for use in maintaining viability of a culture sample. Interengaging detents are provided on the receptacle and cover for releasably retaining the cover in a first position with the top wall of the cover spaced above the bottom of the receptacle to maintain the culture sample and rupturable container in their respective areas without rupturing the container, the interengaging detents being releasable on response to downward pressure on the cover to move down to a second position.

Abstract: A microbial culture apparatus including an outer sealable enclosure for receiving a culture retaining container and a self-contained anaerobic gassing and indicator apparatus which can be selectively activated to provide a gaseous atmosphere around the culture retaining container. The gassing and indicator apparatus includes an open top receptacle having a first rupturable container for producing a gaseous atmosphere, a second rupturable container containing a color indicator, and a catalyst, and a cover for the receptacle arranged to rupture both rupturable containers when the cover is moved to a closed position to activate the gassing and indicating apparatus. The outer enclosure comprises an outer open top receptacle for receiving the culture retaining container and the gassing and indicator apparatus, and a cover which can be moved to a closed position sealing the outer receptacle and activating the gassing and indicating apparatus.