THE USE OF THE SILICA GEL PLATE FOR DEMONSTRATING THE OCCURRENCE AND ABUNDANCE OF CELLULOSE-DECOMPOSING BACTERIA

Abstract

The simplified procedure for preparing silica gel consists in mixing a normal solution of HCl and an equivalent solution of C.P. potassium silicate. These solutions are of such concentration that solidification takes place within a few minutes after the mixture is prepared. Dialysis and the preparation of the medium is carried out according to the method suggested recently by Winogradsky. The authors make special use of this medium for the isolation of cellulose-decomposing bacteria from the soil.