Rationale)

To analyze our results from Monday(Negative) and collect another soil sample, Soil E, in order to test for the presence of phage, additionally, we will collect metadata on Soil E.

Results from Monday)

Both my plaque assay and spot test came back negative, however, the top agar controls for both were clear of contamination. There was evidence of some tears in the top agar.

Procedures)

The plates from Monday were analyzed, and Soil E was subsequently collected. A percent water test was set up using 4g of Soil E. A soil composition test was set up using 8mL of Soil E, the tube was then topped off to 25mL mark with DI water and 3 drops of soil dispersion fluid. Used about 3mL of the soil composition water to test for the pH in a vial topped off with DI water. Soil E was stored in the refrigerator.

Data/Observations)

The plaque assay from Monday had microbubbles present. Both top agar controls were free of bacterial growth. The tree from which I collected was an old and well established healthy live oak in Minglewood Bowl. The area surrounding the tree was very moist. The pH of the soil was 6. The Falcon tube I used had a rust-colored ring around it.

Conclusions/Next Steps)

Based on my data Soil E is slightly acidic. The next steps will be to wash Soil E in order to produce a direct and enriched lysate which can be used to later test for the presence of phage by conducting a plaque assay and spot test.