Selecting device for cells and the like

A device for selecting cells, microorganisms, or gel beads comprising:

• a support member capable of arranging cells, microorganisms, or gel beads thereon;
• means for detecting a specified optical property of cells, microorganisms, or gel beads on said support member and identifying the position of cells microorganisms or gel beads possessing such optical property by means of two-dimensional coordinates relative to the support member;
• a memory device for storing the two-dimensional coordinates of the cells, microorganisms, or gel beads to be selected;
• an adhesive in a container;
• a capillary pickup member;
• a driving means for moving a bottom end of the capillary pickup member into contact with said adhesive, and further capable of moving said capillary pickup member three-dimensionally relative to the support member;
• a control device for controlling the driving means in accordance with said stored coordinates so that the adhesive on the bottom end of the capillary pickup member picks up the cells, microorganisms, or gel beads having the specified optical property;
• and
• said capillary pickup member is connected to a pressurized gas source such that gas is blown through the capillary pickup member to release the cells, microorganisms., or gel beads adhering to the bottom end of the capillary pickup member.