Bacterial cultures are collections of bacteria grown under controlled conditions, typically in a laboratory. Scientists use these cultures to study the characteristics, behavior, and growth patterns of specific bacteria. They can be cultivated on solid media, like agar plates, or in liquid media, such as broth, allowing researchers to observe how bacteria thrive and interact. These cultures are essential for various applications, including medical research, where they help identify pathogens and test antibiotic effectiveness. Additionally, bacterial cultures play a crucial role in biotechnology, where they are used to produce products like enzymes and vaccines, contributing to advancements in health and industry.