Final answer:
An organism that grows slowly in the cold but has an optimum growth temperature of 32°C is called a(n) C) Mesophile.
Explanation
Mesophiles are organisms that thrive in moderate temperature ranges. While they can endure colder conditions and exhibit slow growth at lower temperatures, their optimal growth occurs at a moderate temperature, typically around 20-45°C. In the given scenario, the organism's ability to grow slowly in the cold and reach its optimum growth temperature at 32°C aligns with the characteristics of a mesophile.
The term "mesophile" is derived from the Greek words "mesos" (meaning moderate) and "philos" (meaning loving). Mesophiles are well-adapted to environments with temperatures commonly found on Earth, such as the human body or various ecosystems.
Their growth and metabolic activities are optimized in these moderate temperature conditions. This adaptation ensures their ability to thrive in environments that are not extreme in terms of temperature, distinguishing them from psychrophiles (organisms that prefer cold temperatures) and thermophiles (organisms that thrive in high temperatures).
Understanding the temperature preferences of microorganisms is crucial in various fields, including microbiology and biotechnology. Mesophiles, with their versatility in temperature requirements, play important roles in processes such as food fermentation and environmental bioremediation, making them valuable subjects of study and application.