Used as a solid growth medium in microbiology laboratories to support the cultivation of a wide range of non-fastidious and moderately fastidious microorganisms. The addition of 3% sodium chloride makes it suitable for isolating and growing halophilic (salt-tolerant) bacteria, such as certain strains of Staphylococcus and Vibrio species. Commonly used in environmental monitoring, water testing, and food safety analysis to detect microbial contamination. Also employed in pharmaceutical testing and quality control to ensure sterility and assess microbial load. The agar provides a nutrient-rich surface that supports colony formation, enabling isolation, identification, and enumeration of bacteria from various samples.