Inoculation loop

Inoculation loop

1. Inoculation loop
 An inoculation needle is laboratory equipment used in the field of microbiology to
transfer and inoculate living microorganisms.
 It is one of the most commonly implicated biological laboratory tools and can be
disposable or re-usable.

A standard reusable inoculation needle is made from nichrome or platinum wire affixed
to a metallic handle.

 A disposable inoculation needle is often made from plastic resin. The base of the needle
is dulled, resulting in a blunted end.
 Inoculation needles are primarily applied in microbiology for
studying bacteria and fungi on semi -solid media. Biotechnology, cell
biology and immunology may also utilize needle-oriented culture methods.
 Streaking on streak plates, fish tail inoculation of slant cultures and the inoculation of
stab cultures can be done with the inoculation needle.
 Stab cultures specifically require the inoculation needle and are used to study cell
motility, microbial oxygen requirements using Thioglycolate cultures, and the gelatin
liquefaction of bacteria.