Pre-poured Blank AGAR plate (MEA) 90mm – 10 pack

The Pre-poured Blank MEA (Malt Extract Agar) Plates – 90mm (10-Pack) are an essential tool for fungal cultivation, providing a nutrient-rich environment that supports robust mycelium growth. Whether you’re a beginner or an advanced cultivator, these plates allow for precise isolation, cloning, and contamination monitoring in research, educational, and industrial applications.

Why Use MEA Agar Plates?

MEA plates are a tried-and-true method in mycology, offering an optimal medium for growing fungi. The blend of malt extract, yeast extract, and agar provides a balanced nutritional foundation, allowing mycelium to thrive. The agar’s gel-like consistency offers structural support for tracking mycelial expansion and spotting contaminants early.

Key Benefits:

✅ Supports Healthy Mycelium Growth – A nutrient-rich formula promotes strong fungal development.
✅ Early Contamination Detection – Visually inspect mycelium for mold and bacteria to ensure clean cultures.
✅ Ready to Use – Pre-poured sterile plates eliminate the need for preparation.
✅ Versatile Applications – Suitable for spore inoculation, tissue cloning, strain isolation, and mycological research.
✅ Convenient 10-Pack – Perfect for both small-scale and professional use.

How to Use MEA Agar Plates

Preparing for Sterile Work

Successful agar work requires a clean, contamination-free environment. Using a laminar flow hood ensures sterile airflow, while a still air box minimizes airflow to reduce contamination risks. Always sterilize your tools and hands with 70-90% isopropyl alcohol before handling plates.

Tools & Supplies Needed:

• Pre-poured MEA agar plates

• Sterile scalpel or inoculation loop

• Spore syringe or tissue sample

• Parafilm or micropore tape

• Alcohol wipes & isopropyl alcohol

• A laminar flow hood or still air box

• Labels and marker

Step-by-Step Guide:

Spore Inoculation:

1. Shake the syringe well to evenly distribute spores.

2. Flame-sterilize the needle until red-hot, then let it cool.

3. Slightly lift the agar plate lid and place a small drop of spore solution onto the surface.

4. Close the lid and seal with parafilm or micropore tape.

5. Label with strain, date, and notes.

6. Store at 65-75°F (18-24°C) in a dark space. Mycelium should appear within 5-10 days.

Tissue Cloning:

1. Open the mushroom to expose the inner flesh, avoiding contact with the exterior.

2. Flame-sterilize a scalpel and allow it to cool.

3. Cut a clean tissue sample from the cap or stem.

4. Slightly lift the agar plate lid and place the tissue on the agar surface.

5. Seal, label, and incubate. Mycelium will begin to spread within a few days.

Monitoring & Troubleshooting

• Healthy Mycelium: White, fluffy, and evenly spreading.

• Contaminants: Green, black, or gray mold; slimy or discolored bacterial growth.

• Isolation & Recovery: If contamination occurs, use a sterile scalpel to transfer a clean section of mycelium to a new plate (sectoring method).

Tips for Success

✔ Minimize Handling – Every time a plate is opened, contamination risks increase. Work quickly and efficiently.
✔ Label Clearly – Keep track of multiple strains and transfers.
✔ Store Properly – Keep unused plates sealed in plastic bags in a cool, dark place.
✔ Practice Sterile Technique – Always sterilize tools and work surfaces before use.

With Pre-poured Blank MEA Agar Plates, you’ll have the ideal foundation for cultivating healthy mycelium, isolating strains, and refining your fungal cultivation techniques. Whether you’re exploring wild specimens, conducting research, or optimizing your mushroom-growing process, these high-quality agar plates make the work easier and more efficient.