Used as a selective growth medium in microbiology, particularly for the isolation of pathogenic fungi and some bacteria. The addition of sodium bicarbonate enhances the recovery of certain microorganisms, such as Cryptococcus neoformans and Candida albicans, by promoting capsule formation and supporting optimal growth conditions. Commonly employed in clinical laboratories for culturing respiratory specimens and other clinical samples where fungal infections are suspected. It is also useful in environmental monitoring and quality control in pharmaceutical and healthcare settings.