PPLO Broth is a nutrient rich mycoplasma detection media. Mycoplasmas are the smallest bacteria besides nanobacteria. Due to the lack of cell wall structures they pass filters with pore sizes of 0.2 μm and show a great sensitivity towards osmotic changes within their habitats. They grow aerobically or under facultative anaerobic conditions.
This medium contains beef heart infusion and peptone to supply nutrients required for the growth of mycoplasmas. Sodium chloride maintains osmotic equilibrium. Yeast extract supplies a variety of B-complex vitamins and enhances growth. Normal horse serum provides a protein source. Penicillin and thallium acetate are added as inhibitors of bacteria. Yeasts and molds are inhibited by the amphotericin B contained in the medium. 

PPLO broth is used to detect presence of mycoplasma in test samples through direct inoculation or sterile filtration methods.