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Multiple Choice
What is the difference between facultative anaerobes and aerotolerant anaerobes?
A
Facultative anaerobes only grow in the absence of oxygen, while aerotolerant anaerobes only grow in the presence of oxygen.
B
Facultative anaerobes cannot survive in the presence of oxygen, whereas aerotolerant anaerobes require oxygen for growth.
C
Facultative anaerobes are killed by oxygen, whereas aerotolerant anaerobes thrive in high oxygen environments.
D
Facultative anaerobes can use oxygen for respiration but can also grow without it, while aerotolerant anaerobes do not use oxygen but can tolerate its presence.
Verified step by step guidance
1
Understand the definitions: Facultative anaerobes are organisms that can use oxygen for cellular respiration when it is available but can also switch to anaerobic respiration or fermentation when oxygen is absent. Aerotolerant anaerobes, on the other hand, do not use oxygen for respiration but can survive and grow in its presence.
Identify the key characteristics of facultative anaerobes: They have the ability to switch between aerobic and anaerobic metabolic pathways depending on the availability of oxygen. This flexibility allows them to thrive in various environments.
Identify the key characteristics of aerotolerant anaerobes: These organisms do not utilize oxygen for their metabolic processes. However, they possess mechanisms to protect themselves from the toxic effects of oxygen, allowing them to survive in oxygen-rich environments.
Compare the two types: The main difference lies in their use of oxygen. Facultative anaerobes can metabolize with or without oxygen, while aerotolerant anaerobes do not use oxygen but are not harmed by it.
Summarize the distinction: Facultative anaerobes are versatile in their metabolic processes, using oxygen when available, whereas aerotolerant anaerobes are indifferent to oxygen, neither using it nor being affected by its presence.