Final answer:
Endospores are highly resistant structures formed by certain bacteria. They protect the bacterial genome in a dormant state, allowing the bacteria to survive adverse conditions. Pathologically, endospores can cause diseases like anthrax and pseudomembranous colitis.
Step-by-step explanation:
Endospores are highly resistant structures formed by certain bacteria, such as Bacillus and Clostridium, in response to adverse environmental conditions. The biological significance of endospores lies in their ability to protect the bacterial genome in a dormant state, allowing the bacteria to survive for long periods of time without food or water, as well as exposure to heat, chemicals, and radiation. Pathologically, endospores produced by certain gram-positive bacteria, such as B. anthracis and C. difficile, can cause diseases like anthrax and pseudomembranous colitis, respectively. These endospore-forming bacteria are particularly challenging to combat because of the hardiness of their endospores.