Question

Giardia lamblia is a cyst-forming protist parasite that causes diarrhea if ingested. Given this information, against what type(s) of environments might G. lamblia cysts be particularly resistant?

a) Extreme temperatures and high humidity.
b) Damp and dark conditions.
c) Dry and cold conditions.
d) Dry and hot conditions.

Answer 1

Giardia lamblia cysts are resistant to dry and cold conditions, allowing them to survive in contaminated water supplies even with cold temperatures.

Step-by-step explanation:

Giardia lamblia cysts exhibit resistance particularly against cold temperatures and the chlorination treatment typically used for drinking water. These cysts can survive in harsh environmental conditions, making contamination through water sources a concern. The cyst form of G. lamblia is an adaptation that allows the parasite to withstand unfavorable conditions, ensuring that it can survive outside of the host until it is ingested by a new one.

Therefore, G. lamblia cysts are particularly resistant to option (c) Dry and cold conditions. This resistance enables the cysts to remain viable in environments where other pathogens might not, such as contaminated water supplies that are subject to cold temperatures. This highlights the importance of effective water filtration systems in preventing the spread of giardiasis.