Final Answer:
The image depicts clear zones around Staphylococcus aureus colonies, indicative of beta-hemolysis, where the bacteria produce exotoxins that destroy red blood cells and cause hemolysis. Therefore , the correct answer is option b) hemolysis.
Step-by-step explanation:
The image depicting Staphylococcus aureus colonies on an agar plate suggests the presence of beta-hemolysis, which is a form of hemolysis where the bacteria produce exotoxins that destroy red blood cells and break down hemoglobin. This process involves the release of toxins that cause the complete lysis of red blood cells, leading to a clear zone around the bacterial colonies on the agar plate.
Beta-hemolysis is a characteristic feature of certain pathogenic bacteria, including Staphylococcus aureus. The exotoxins produced by these bacteria play a crucial role in the destruction of red blood cells, aiding the bacteria in obtaining nutrients for growth. This phenomenon is often observed in diagnostic microbiology when identifying and characterizing bacterial species based on their hemolytic properties.
In summary, the image reflects the exotoxin-mediated process of beta-hemolysis, where the released toxins cause the lysis of red blood cells. This process is distinct from other cellular activities such as cell cycle disruption, exocytosis, or cytoskeleton alteration.
Therefore , the correct answer is option b) hemolysis.