LEGIONELLA AGAR BASE W/O CHARCOAL

Legionella Agar initially called as F-G agar was modified by Feely et al by replacing Starch with charcoal and casein hydrolysate with yeast extract which resulted in better recovery of Legionella pneumophila. Pasculle et al reported that the addition of ACES (N-2-acetamido-2-amino ethane sulphonic acid) buffer improved the nutritive value of medium. Edelstein suggested addition of a-Ketoglutarate to increase the sensitivity of this medium.
Legionella species have an absolute nutritional requirement for L-Cysteine. Presumptive Legionella species colonies can be subcultured onto both Legionella Agar Base with Legionella Growth Supplement (BCYE) and with Legionella Growth Supplement w/o L-Cysteine. All plates are incubated at 35?C. Colonies which grow on Legionella Agar Base with Legionella Growth Supplement (BCYE), with L-Cysteine, but not on Legionella Agar Base with Legionella Growth Supplement w/o L-Cysteine, can be regarded as presumptive Legionella species.

with the addition of charcoal supplement is used for the cultivation of Legionella species