M-910.00.803 [2024-02] General methods – Operating a dark-field microscope

Application/Purpose

The method describes the procedure for operating a dark-field microscope.

Scope of Application

Laboratories in the beverage industry in general and the brewing industry in particular.

Principle

Dark-field microscopy is predominantly used to analyse specimens with small structures. This method is particularly suitable for low-contrast microorganisms such as lactic acid bacteria.

To identify and assess microorganisms, their morphological characteristics are determined microscopically. Microorganisms with a thicker cell wall (e. g. thicker murein layer in gram-positive bacteria) refract light more strongly and can therefore provide a preliminary assessment.

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