# Prepare your sample

BactoBox® imposes some [requirements](/encyclopedia/measurements-explained/what-can-i-measure-on.md) for your samples. *Sample preparation* ensures that your sample meets these requirements.

<img src="/files/jC2yFNWmWUDPBQ2VqoLV" alt="" class="gitbook-drawing">

## Questions about your sample

If you answer *yes* to any of these questions, you need to address it in your sample preparation! Visit the corresponding links for more information.

### Does your bacteria form clumps or chains?

[*Streptococci*](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Streptococcus), [*Bacillus*](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Bacillus) specie&#x73;*,* and [lactic acid bacteria](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Lactic_acid_bacteria) are notorious examples.

{% content-ref url="/pages/rKOmTP0TGrQbTj7pggFY" %}
[Break up clumps and chains](/protocols/prepare-your-sample/break-up-clumps-and-chains.md)
{% endcontent-ref %}

### Does your sample contain [particulate matter](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Particulate_matter)?

Anything above 10 µm is large. This is usually the case for coarse samples.

{% content-ref url="/pages/glyXGelhqxmL7JWie7wf" %}
[Remove large particles](/protocols/prepare-your-sample/remove-large-particles.md)
{% endcontent-ref %}

### Does your sample have *high* bacterial concentration?

Anything above 5 million cells/mL is high. Usually when you want to *produce* bacteria.

{% content-ref url="/pages/4X3QEQbV8I5mRxlH5r9t" %}
[Hit the right concentration](/protocols/prepare-your-sample/hit-the-right-concentration.md)
{% endcontent-ref %}

### Does your sample have *low* bacterial concentration?

Anything below 0.5 million cells/mL is low. May be the case if your bacteria are still in the [lag phase](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Bacterial_growth).

{% content-ref url="/pages/KFoMaez9xd7SrsiRG3m5" %}
[Concentrate your sample](/protocols/prepare-your-sample/hit-the-right-concentration/concentrate-your-sample.md)
{% endcontent-ref %}

{% hint style="info" %}

## Very low bacterial concentration?

BactoBox® is generally not suitable for very low bacterial concentrations.
{% endhint %}


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