Apparatus for detecting and culturing microorganisms using a biphasic culture vessel

A biphasic culturing apparatus which employs multiple solid nutrient media in a single vessel includes an enclosed container which has an opening defined in one of its surfaces for introducing material into the container. At least one container surface includes a flat, transparent portion for viewing the solid and liquid nutrient media from outside the container. A first partition inside the container divides the interior volume thereof into upper and lower portions, and at least one second partition divides the upper container portion into a plurality of compartmental volumes. A liquid nutrient medium is located in the lower container portion, and a solid nutrient medium is contained in each compartmental volume. The first and second partitions are configured so that each solid nutrient medium may be separately innoculated with the liquid medium.