Phases of Bacterial Growth

The spread of bacteria has long been a hot topic of scientific concern. Given the correct conditions, these organisms, some of which spread disease, will multiply at an alarming rate.

Lag Phase

• During this stage, bacteria get acclimated to their environment. They need time to get used to their nutrients, so growth is slow during this phase.

Log Phase

• Once the bacteria have adapted, they begin to multiply exponentially. During this stage, their numbers double every few minutes.

Stationary Phase

• Eventually, the number of bacteria is so large that the food supply begins to dwindle. At this point, the rapid growth of the log phase stops.

Death Phase

• Because there are so many bacteria, they can't move to find further resources. Their food supply runs out, waste products build up, and the bacteria die.

Conditions

• When in the right conditions, bacteria can grow at any amazing rate. However, they have to have proper light, food and pH levels to accomplish this.