Desiccation is the process of removing water from microorganisms, leading to their inhibition or death. It is a physical method used to control microbial growth by depriving cells of the moisture necessary for metabolic processes.
5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test
Desiccation effectively inhibits the growth of most bacteria and fungi because they require moisture to thrive.
Endospores and some viruses are more resistant to desiccation compared to vegetative bacterial cells.
Lyophilization, also known as freeze-drying, combines freezing and desiccation for long-term preservation of microbial cultures.
Desiccation is commonly employed in food preservation techniques such as drying fruits and meats.
Microorganisms can sometimes recover from desiccation if rehydrated under favorable conditions.