Looking for a fun activity involving microbes?
The Winogradsky column provides a window into the microbial world
A Winogradsky column is a method of growing microorganisms using very simple supplies.
This activity is fun for anyone and all ages:
- Microbe enthusiasts: learn about microbial communities
- Parents: teach your kids about microbes
- Educators: build a microbial ecosystem with your class
Collect some mud and water, add egg yolk and paper to the mud, top it with a loose-fitting lid, set it in the sun, and let the microbes do their work.
With these ingredients inside of a clear container, the microbes begin to form layers of different colors based on the microbes that can grow in those particular layers.
Read more about Winogradsky columns here.
Lots of changes occur in Winogradsky columns over the course of 8 weeks. So, it’s helpful to keep track of what happens…
Track the progress of your Winogradsky column
Receive a Free copy of the “Winogradsky Column Workbook,” a workbook that will walk you through how to track the progress of your Winogradsky column and provides a space for you to document up to 8 weeks of results.
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