inkubátore

An inkubator, often referred to as an incubator in English, is a device used to maintain controlled environmental conditions for the growth and development of young organisms, primarily in the context of agriculture and scientific research. These controlled conditions typically include temperature, humidity, and sometimes atmospheric composition, such as oxygen levels.

In agriculture, incubators are most commonly associated with poultry farming. They are used to hatch eggs by providing a warm and humid environment that mimics a broody hen. This allows for the controlled hatching of large numbers of chicks, ducklings, or other bird species, independent of natural incubation periods and environmental fluctuations. The temperature and humidity levels are carefully monitored and adjusted throughout the incubation period to ensure optimal development of the embryo.

Beyond poultry, incubators are also vital in biological and medical research. Laboratories use incubators to grow cell cultures, bacteria, fungi, and other microorganisms. These incubators maintain specific temperatures and gas mixtures required for the viability and proliferation of these microscopic life forms. In some cases, specialized incubators are used for incubating embryos or other sensitive biological samples under sterile conditions. The design and functionality of incubators can vary significantly depending on their intended application, ranging from simple, thermostat-controlled boxes to highly sophisticated, automated systems.