Final answer:
Endospores are the most resistant forms of life known in bacteria. They protect the bacterial genome and allow the cells to survive in unfavorable environmental conditions.
Step-by-step explanation:
Endospores are the most resistant forms of life known in bacteria. They are structures formed by certain genera of bacteria, such as Bacillus and Clostridium, in response to unfavorable environmental conditions. Endospores protect the bacterial genome and allow the cells to survive long periods without food or water, as well as exposure to chemicals, extreme temperatures, and even radiation.