Question

Which statement accurately describes the identification and classification of pathogenic bacteria? (Microbiology)

a.) Pathogenic bacteria can be identified and classified by differences in their flagellar proteins.
b.) Pathogenic bacteria are unique because they have a membrane covering the filaments.
c.) Pathogenic bacteria have a unique basal body structure.
d.) Pathogenic bacteria do not have flagella.

Answer 1

Option a.) Pathogenic bacteria can be identified and classified by differences in their flagellar proteins is the statement that accurately describes the identification and classification of pathogenic bacteria, based on their unique arrangements and proteins associated with flagella.

Step-by-step explanation:

The identification and classification of pathogenic bacteria can indeed be based on differences in their flagellar proteins. Different types of motile bacteria have different arrangements of flagella, which is a key feature used for identification. For example, Vibrio cholerae has a monotrichous flagellum, Spirillum minor has amphitrichous flagella, Pseudomonas aeruginosa has lophotrichous flagella, and Escherichia coli has peritrichous flagella. These structures are important not only for mobility but also contain antigens that can be distinct among different bacterial pathogens.

Therefore, the statement that accurately describes the identification and classification of pathogenic bacteria would be option a.) Pathogenic bacteria can be identified and classified by differences in their flagellar proteins. This is because the structure of flagella and the proteins associated with them vary among species and can serve as distinguishing features.