Used primarily in microbiology for the selective isolation of pathogenic microorganisms, especially Vibrio species such as Vibrio cholerae, from clinical and environmental samples. The bile salts in the medium inhibit the growth of gram-positive bacteria and many non-target gram-negative bacteria, allowing selective growth of enteric pathogens. Its alkaline pH further supports the preferential growth of cholera and related vibrios, which thrive in higher pH environments. Commonly used in diagnostic laboratories during outbreak investigations of gastroenteritis and cholera. Also applied in food and water testing to detect contamination by pathogenic Vibrio species.