Abstract

The purpose of this study was to identify appropriate samples and culture techniques on the isolation of thermophiles from local hot spring. Samples obtained from hot spring were used to assess the effects of sample type (water, biomat and sediment) and culture technique (on site or in laboratory after shipping in thermo flask) on thermopiles isolation rate. Overall, isolation rates were higher from sediment and biomat than from water sample. Isolation of thermophiles also occurred better when culture in laboratory compared with on site culture technique. Results of this study suggest that optimal isolation rates of thermophiles from sediment sample are achieved by culturing the sample on nutrient agar or broth at high temperature. For samples that cannot be processed immediately, acceptable handling techniques include storage at refrigeration for up to 5 days, shipping on thermo flask also recommended.

Key words: Thermophilic microorganisms, isolations, hot spring.