Petri Dish Growth Medium NYT Crossword Clue: Answer & Explanation
When searching for the answer to the "Petri Dish Growth Medium" NYT Crossword clue, the solution for October 8, 2025, is "AGAR".
What is Agar? The Petri Dish Growth Medium
Agar is a gelatinous substance derived from red algae, widely used in microbiology as a solid growth medium to culture bacteria, fungi, and other microorganisms inside Petri dishes. The gel-like properties of agar provide an ideal surface for microbes to grow and spread, making it a fundamental tool in laboratories.
The use of agar as a growth medium in Petri dishes dates back to the late 19th century and continues to be a key component for biological research and clinical diagnostics.
Why is Agar the Answer?
In the New York Times crossword puzzles, the clue "Petri dish growth medium" often requires a four-letter answer. Given agar's significance in microbiology and its perfect fit in both meaning and length, it is the recurring correct solution.
How to Use This Clue to Improve Your Crossword Skills
Knowing common answers like "AGAR" for petri dish-related clues can boost your crossword solving speed, especially for scientific and biology-themed puzzles like the New York Times. Familiarize yourself with recurring crossword answers for growth mediums and related biological terms.
Petri Dish Growth Medium NYT Crossword Clue - FAQs
When was "Petri Dish Growth Medium" last used in NYT Crossword?
October 8, 2025.
What’s the typical answer length?
Four letters: A-G-A-R.
What is agar and why is it used in petri dishes?
Agar is a gel-like substance derived from red algae, used as a solid growth medium in petri dishes because it provides an ideal surface for microorganism growth.
What other terms related to petri dish mediums appear in crosswords?
Other common crossword answers related to petri dish growth might include "GEL," "SLANT," and sometimes specific nutrient broths or medium types like "NUTRIENT."
