What technique is used to identify bacterial species in microbiology?

Culture and sensitivity testing is a fundamental technique used in microbiology to identify bacterial species. This method involves isolating bacteria from a sample (like urine, blood, or a wound swab) and growing them in a controlled environment to form colonies. After the colonies are established, various tests can be conducted to determine their characteristics, aiding in the identification of the species.

Additionally, culture and sensitivity testing allows for the evaluation of how well specific antibiotics can inhibit or kill the identified bacteria, providing crucial information for treatment decisions. This approach is particularly valuable because it not only identifies the bacteria present but also informs healthcare providers about the most effective medications for treatment based on the bacteria's resistance patterns.

Other techniques listed, while useful in microbiology, serve different purposes. For instance, PCR is primarily used for amplifying DNA to detect genetic material; ELISA is mainly used for detecting antigens or antibodies in a sample; and immunofluorescence is commonly used to visualize specific proteins or antigens in cells or tissues. Each of these techniques has its own application in microbiology, but when it comes to straightforward bacterial identification, culture and sensitivity testing remains the gold standard.