Although keeping Macrostomum in the lab is not difficult, some basic guidelines are indispensable. Please read this guidelines carefully, especially if starting cultures of Macrostomum or if having problems.
Worm cultures
For many experiments and observations it is indispensable (or at least very convenient) to keep Macrostomum in the laboratory. This has proven quite easy for several species.
In this site you will find protocols for keeping the following species:
Macrostomum lignano
Macrostomum pusillum
Macrostomum spirale
Macrostomum hystrix
If you keep another Macrostomum species in the lab, please send me the protocol. Likewise, if you have found better results by adjusting the protocols herein described, please send me your comments.
Algae cultures
For algivorous species, it is often necessary to cultivate the algae as well. Most algae species are available from the SAG (Culture Collection of Algae at the University of Göttingen).
In this site you will find protocols for maintaining diatoms of the genus Nitzschia. As above, if you keep other species of algae or have tried different methods, please send me your protocols / comments.
stock cultures (in agar tubes)
To keep a ready supply of algae in order to inoculate petri dishes.
petri dishes
The standard way of growing algae in large quantities.
Media
Different media used in keeping the cultures, in experiments, etc.
ASW, Artificial Sea Water
For general use, can be prepared of any salinity. Also the basis for f/2 medium.
f/2 medium, Diatom medium, Guillard's medium
Required for the development and reproduction of diatoms. Worms also do well in f/2.
MgCl2, Magnesium chloride
Used to immobilise the worms (usually called anaesthetic). It prevents muscular movements and its effect disappears after removal. The dosage depends strongly on the salinity in which the worm is found, with lower-salinity worms being much more sensitive.
agar
Used in the preparation of algal stock cultures.
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