I want to explain what I mean when I say “well homogenized” when discussing spore syringes (and many other microscopic items) and why you shouldn’t worry when you see a “clear” syringe!
Spores are microscopic- a single spore is around 10 microns, the average human hair is around 70 microns thick so you can appreciate just how small they are! When spores are stirred in the distilled water solution via magnetic stir bar/plate (I keep a video of all spore syringe batches, I am happy to offer videos to those who want to see just ask me, there are a few representative videos below, see this link for my current exotic spore syringe batches) they get pulled into solution and will separate into smaller and smaller clumps, sometimes becoming so small they are nearly invisible.
Very well homogenized samples will have almost no visible clumps; however, the spore solution will be “dirty” looking and have a purple-ish tint and on close inspection over a white background will have some visible clumps. MMM keeps the spore solution videos for all batches. You can request the videos for your batch(es) via email by providing your order number, varieties you received and their corresponding batch dates from the collectors cards.
I am very happy with the spore density of my spore syringes. There are plenty of spores for viewing (with clumps visible to the naked eye even) but the spore density is low enough to reduce contamination. All spore prints are inherently dirty to some level, it is impossible to create spore prints with 100% certainty that they are 100% clean. Thus, the more dense a spore solution (the more spore prints that are used), the higher chances of contamination. I am happy to report that I have reached a spore density after many years and many tens of thousands of syringes that reduces contamination within the syringe to near zero levels but still allows one to easily find spores on slides.
If your syringe appears “clear” fear not! The purpose of these microscopy samples is to study them under the scope; once you get the spores onto a slide and check them out (I suggest 400X on a compound scope) you won’t have any trouble seeing the spores. Remember to shake well before use!
Note- Do NOT overcompensate volume because they appear “clear”- you run the risk of ruining your slide prep with too much water and wasting solution.
This information is for educational purposes only.
Worked great my go to from now on!
So glad to hear! Make sure to also leave an official review on our review page and checkout our freebie program!
https://www.mushroommanmycology.com/review-referral-programs/reviews/
Is the solution just water?
Yes, it is distilled water.
Leaving a comment here to validate what MMM explained here. My freebie spore syringe is wholly clear but also completely works for what we all are looking for!
That is what I like to hear!!
Thank you so much for the support and for letting others know of your good experience with the samples under the scope 🙂
My free syringe was clear and properly prepared. too many spores in a syringe creates a feeding ground for bacteria and mold, so less is actually better. The clumps were broken down to a dozen or so spores, with plenty of individual spores left as individuals for measure and identification. I like it when someone takes the same care and quality control that I would in preparing a specimen.
I am a newbie to mycology. i am hoping for some great slides.
Thank you so much for your interest!
I have the utmost confidence you will be pleased with my products for your scope. Just shake well, don’t use more solution than your slide prep protocol calls for and you’ll be golden 🙂