Microbial Growth
Microbial Growth Microbial growth refers to an increase in the number of microorganisms in a population through cell division. In microbiology, growth is not primarily about an increase in cell size but about population expansion. This concept is fundamental in understanding infections, food spoilage, industrial fermentation, and ecological nutrient cycles. Nature of Microbial Growth Most bacteria reproduce by binary fission, a process in which a single cell divides into two genetically identical daughter cells. Under favourable conditions, this leads to rapid population increase. The time required for a microbial population to double is called the generation time. Some bacteria can divide in as little as 20 minutes, resulting in exponential population growth. The Microbial Growth Curve When microorganisms are grown in a closed culture system, such as a batch culture in a laboratory flask, their growth follows a predictable pattern known as the growth curve. Lag Phase Cells are...