Question

Mycobacterium are more resistant to disinfection than other bacteria because:

1) They have a thicker cell wall
2) They have a smaller size
3) They have a higher reproduction rate
4) They have a lower metabolic rate

Answer 1

Mycobacterium are more resistant to disinfection because of their thicker cell wall containing mycolic acid, which serves as a robust barrier against the penetration of disinfectants. So, the correct option is 1) They have a thicker cell wall.

Step-by-step explanation:

Mycobacterium are more resistant to disinfection than other bacteria primarily because they have a thicker cell wall due to the presence of mycolic acid. This waxy substance in the cell wall acts as a barrier that protects the bacteria not only from antibiotics and phagocytosis by the immune system but also helps in resisting the penetration of disinfectants. The mycolic acid makes the cell wall of these bacteria very robust, inhibiting substances from reaching the cell membrane and interfering with their metabolic processes, thus increasing their survival in adverse conditions such as exposure to disinfectants.