NCIMB

NCIMB Ltd provides a two-tier service for the identification of bacterial isolates. A first stage investigation to determine the broad identity of the isolate is followed by an optional second stage to take the identification further.

Genetic techniques do not usually require a preliminary examination.

After the first stage investigation, NCIMB presents a written report detailing the results and indicating to which group the isolate belongs (e.g. Bacillus, coryneform, Pseudomonas/Alteromonas/Alcaligenes, Psychrobacter/Moraxella, Cytophaga/Flexibacter, Enterobacteriaceae etc.). This report is accompanied by an estimate of the cost of taking the identification further. However, there is no obligation to have further work done, for in many cases the first stage investigation may provide sufficient information to meet the needs of the client.

A final report is presented on completion of the second stage. If requested, NCIMB will fax or telephone the conclusions of the first and/or second stage investigations in advance of the written report, at no extra charge.

All work on and information about isolates submitted for identification are treated in strict confidence, and, unless the client requests otherwise, all cultures are destroyed on completion of the work.

Clients sending cultures for identification are asked to note the following points.

1. It is helpful to state the isolation source, if possible. NCIMB does not accept dangerous human pathogens or organisms isolated from clinical or diseased plant materials for identification.
2. Pure cultures are preferred. However, NCIMB will purify mixed cultures on request, for a fee determined by prior arrangement, and will attempt the identification of one or more components of the mixture as required.
3. Cultures should be supplied freeze-dried or as agar slants or stabs in screw-capped bottles, NOT on petri dishes.
4. Sufficient cultural details should be provided to enable NCIMB to grow and maintain the isolate.
5. Although reasonable attempts are made to identify isolates to species level or below, NCIMB cannot guarantee identification to this or any other level. Fees are payable for work done in the determination and interpretation of tests results, regardless of the level of identification achieved.
6. Please include an official purchase order number and contact name with each identification.
7. Detailed advice on the packaging of bacterial cultures is available on request.