HOW TO MAKE AGAR. Step by Step Guide for Mycology

Agar, a gelatinous substance derived from seaweed, is a fundamental ingredient in mycology. Its ability to provide a solid growth medium for fungi makes it a vital tool for researchers and cultivators. In this article, we present a step-by-step guide on how to make agar for mycology experiments, enabling you to create a reliable substrate for your fungal studies.

Magic Mushroom Agar Plate

Learn other forms of culture cultivation such as liquid culture here, or creating spore syringes here.

Step 1: Gather the Required Materials Before diving into the process, ensure you have the following materials on hand:

1. Agar Powder: Obtain a high-quality agar powder from a reputable supplier. It should be specifically labeled for laboratory or mycology use.

2. Nutrient Source: Depending on your specific experiment or fungal species, select a suitable nutrient source to supplement the agar. Common choices include malt extract, potato dextrose, or yeast extract.

3. Water: Use distilled or deionized water to prepare the agar solution. This helps minimize the presence of impurities that could affect the growth of your fungi.

4. Mixing Container: Select a sterile glass or heat-resistant plastic container large enough to hold the desired volume of agar solution. A microwaveable glass measuring cup or laboratory flask works well.

5. Heat Source: You will need a heat source, such as a stovetop or microwave, to melt and sterilize the agar solution.

Step 2: Prepare the Agar Solution Follow these steps to prepare the agar solution:

1. Measure the Water: Measure the appropriate amount of water based on the desired agar concentration and final volume. Remember to account for the additional volume occupied by the nutrient source.

2. Dissolve the Agar: Add the agar powder to the water and stir gently to ensure even distribution. Let it sit for a few minutes to allow the agar particles to hydrate.

3. Heat and Stir: Place the container with the agar mixture on a heat source, such as a stovetop burner or in a microwave. Slowly heat the mixture while stirring continuously to dissolve the agar completely. Be cautious to avoid excessive boiling or bubbling.

4. Add the Nutrient Source: Once the agar has dissolved, add the desired amount of your chosen nutrient source to the mixture. Stir well until fully incorporated.

Step 3: Sterilization and Pouring After preparing the agar solution, proceed with sterilization and pouring:

1. Sterilize the Agar Solution: To ensure a sterile environment, sterilize the agar solution by heating it to a temperature of around 121°C (250°F) for 15-20 minutes. This can be achieved using an autoclave or a pressure cooker.

2. Cool the Solution: After sterilization, allow the agar solution to cool slightly until it reaches a temperature between 45°C and 55°C (113°F to 131°F). This ensures the agar remains in a liquid state but is cool enough to pour without damaging heat-sensitive organisms.

3. Pouring the Agar: Carefully pour the sterilized agar solution into sterile Petri dishes or other containers suitable for your experiment. Fill the containers to the desired depth, typically 15-20 mm.

4. Solidification: Let the agar cool and solidify at room temperature. Avoid moving or disturbing the containers during this process to ensure an even surface.

In conclusion, preparing agar for mycology experiments is a crucial step in cultivating fungi and conducting accurate studies. By following this step-by-step guide, you can create a reliable and nutrient-rich growth medium for your fungal cultures. Remember to maintain proper sterilization techniques throughout the process to minimize contamination and ensure successful experiments.

Happy experimenting and may your mycology pursuits flourish! If you are interested in Psilocybin / Magic Mushroom Growing and cultivation, we sell grow kits here in our shop!