When counting colonies on an agar plate,
A) only viable colonies are counted.
B) it is assumed that each colony arose from only one cell.
C) the medium must be suitable for colonial growth.
D) All of the above apply.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

All of the above apply. Only viable colonies should be counted, as non-viable or dead cells will not grow into a colony. It is assumed that each colony arose from one cell, as this is how colonies typically form on agar plates. Additionally, the medium must be suitable for the growth of colonies, as not all bacteria can grow on all types of media.

When Counting Colonies on an Agar Plate