Preparing a Protozoan Culture for Observation

[adjacent]

I am trying to observe protozoas under microscope but the place I live doesn't have pond waters or such types of still waters.I want to make a culture.Yes,I have tried to make it by putting dried grass,yeast,soil,leaves etc. but it seems protozoans hate this kind of waters(Nothing except bacteria is visible)

So,how do I prepare a culture suitable for the kingdom of protista?

 

[Borek]

Can't you try to filter some sea water?

I am surprised that you don't see anything is the cultures made from fresh water and grass, these are rather sure way of getting results. How long have you waited?

Edit:

https://www.physicsforums.com/showthread.php?t=690476
https://www.physicsforums.com/showthread.php?t=693874

 

[adjacent]

I see.The water I used was drinking water.It contains some chloride and magnesium ions.Maybe that's the problem.Is it okay to boil the water,will chloride and magnesium ions go away?

Furthermore,I am very curious to know how there microorganisms suddenly come from no where(to the water)

 

[Borek]

Chlorides and magnesium should be not a problem, however, drinking water can contain chlorine used as disinfectant. But yes, boiling it before use should help (actually it is part of most recipes for cultures I have seen).

Organisms don't come from nowhere - spores and cysts are present everywhere, in the air, on the grass surface and so on. And they are quite resistant, they can sit for years waiting for a correct conditions.

 

[LudusRex]

I understand your frustration in trying to observe protozoa without access to pond waters or other still waters. However, there are a few steps you can take to prepare a suitable culture for the kingdom of protista.

First, it is important to understand that protozoa require a specific type of environment to thrive. They typically prefer still or stagnant waters with a high nutrient content. Therefore, instead of using dried grass, yeast, soil, or leaves, try using a nutrient-rich medium such as hay infusion or hay extract. This can be made by soaking hay in water for a few days and then straining out any solid materials.

Another important factor to consider is the pH of the culture. Protozoa tend to thrive in slightly acidic environments, so adding a small amount of vinegar or lemon juice to the culture can help create a suitable pH.

It is also important to maintain proper oxygen levels in the culture. This can be achieved by gently stirring the culture or adding an air stone or bubbler.

Lastly, it is important to maintain a consistent temperature for the culture. Protozoa prefer warmer temperatures, so keeping the culture at room temperature or slightly warmer can help promote their growth.

Overall, creating a suitable culture for protozoa can be a trial and error process, but by following these guidelines and making any necessary adjustments, you should be able to create a successful culture for observation under a microscope. Good luck with your observations!