TRACE ELEMENTS

TRACE ELEMENTS

• Trace elements include cobalt, copper, manganese, molybdenum, nickel,

selenium and zinc.
• These elements are usually required at concentrations of 0.1–1mg/L, or less, for
a number of specific enzymes.
• Their normal concentrations in water supplies, or as contaminants in other media
ingredients, often fulfil this requirement.
 TRACE ELEMENTS

• Overall nutrient demands vary for different microorganisms.

• Many bacteria can grow on media merely containing carbon and energy sources,
and basic mineral elements.
• Microorganisms that are able to grow on this minimal medium are referred to as
prototrophs.
• However, other microorganisms must be given specific compounds in a part or
fully constructed form.
 TRACE ELEMENTS

• Those that are unable to grow without additional organic substances, such as
amino acids or vitamins, are called auxotrophs.
• Culture media for many organotrophic microorganisms often require certain
vitamin and growth factor supplements, especially b vitamins (thiamin, b1;
riboflavin, b2; pyridoxine, b6; cobalamin, b12; biotin; nicotinic acid; and
pantothenic acid).
• Few microorganisms require fat-soluble vitamins (a, d, e and k); and vitamin c,
although often improving growth, is not a true microbial growth factor.