Winogradsky Column. First week (Group B2)

A Winogradsky Column is a microecosystem which  allows us to study all the possible combinations of microorganisms  that can grow in several types of environments.

To prepare it, first we mix 30 g of mud with the next ingredients to provide substrates to all the microorganisms so they can develop properly:

- Yeast extract: 3,03 g
- Iron sulphate: 2,84 g
- Calcium carbonate: 5,10 g
- Sugar: 1,05 g
- Sodium chloride: 3,4 g
- Cellulose: 0,5 g

Then we add 30 g of sand combined with 10 g of mud, with some water on top, and we cover the column.
As we used a lot of organic material, we expect the column to turn into a dark color due to the  big amount of iron sulphate added. We also think the oxygen will be consumed quickly, leading to a better development of anaerobic microorganisms.

                                                                                                                Inés, Daniel y Andrea