Photo of the Week » Dirty Money
Bacteria Growing On Dollar Bill
US $1 banknote covered with bacteria. The banknote has been covered by a thin layer of agar gel that contains a nutrient medium. Another $1 banknote was laid on the agar gel, over the embedded banknote, for 5 minutes and then removed. Bacteria and fungi on the second banknote were transferred to the agar gel, which was then incubated. This image was taken after 4 days of incubation. The growth of colonies show the locations of the micro-organisms on the banknote. This image demonstrates why it is a good idea to wash one’s hands after handling paper money.
