Fundamentals of Microbiology

Incubator

 Incubator is used to culture microbes at constant temperature conditions. It is essentially similar to hot air oven except that temperature in this device is maintained at a constant level by an automatic device called thermostat. The thermostat cuts off the heating device when temperature reaches the desired level and once again switches it on when temperature drops below the desired level. Perforated shelves ensure proper ventilation. The incubator has double doors. The inner door is made up of glass to facilitate viewing of contents without opening the door and letting the outside air in. Thus in an incubator microbes can be cultured at optimum conditions required for growth. Since incubator maintains temperature by dry heat, a beaker filled with water should be kept to provide moisture and prevent dehydration of medium. In some incubators fluorescent light attachment is also provided for culturing microbes that require light for growth or sporulation.