Question

The inability of the "superbug" to successfully clean up oil spills in the ocean environment was mostly a matter of its inability to survive and compete in that environment.

Answer 1

The inability of the 'superbug' to clean up oil spills in the ocean environment is due to its inability to survive and compete in that environment. Scientists are genetically engineering the bacterium Alcanivorax borkumensis to enhance its ability to clean up oil spills.

Step-by-step explanation:

The subject of this question is Biology as it relates to the ability of the 'superbug' to clean up oil spills in the ocean environment.

The inability of the 'superbug' to successfully clean up oil spills in the ocean environment is primarily due to its inability to survive and compete in that environment. Ocean environments are harsh and can contain various factors, such as limited nutrients, high salinity, and low oxygen levels, which make it challenging for organisms like the 'superbug' to thrive and effectively clean up oil spills.

To be more efficient in cleaning up future spills, scientists are genetically engineering the bacterium Alcanivorax borkumensis, to enhance its ability to survive and degrade oil. This genetic modification can potentially improve its ability to clean up oil spills in the ocean environment.