What is the most common preservation temperature for samples?

The most common preservation temperature for water samples is less than or equal to 6 degrees C. This temperature range is crucial for preserving the integrity of the samples and minimizing changes that might occur before analysis. At temperatures above this threshold, microbial activity can increase, leading to the potential alteration of parameters such as nutrient concentrations and microbial populations, which can affect the accuracy of analytical results.

Maintaining samples at or below 6 degrees C helps to ensure stability and viability, thus preserving chemical composition and biological activity until the samples can be analyzed. This practice is especially important for certain analyses, such as those involving pathogens or biochemical oxygen demand, where temperature could significantly impact results.