Question

Clostridium tetani, the bacterium that causes tetanus, can survive in soil for up to 40 years. It is most likely in which of the following structures?

a. a cell membrane
b. a glycocalyx
c. a cell wall
d. a pilus
e. an endospore

Answer 1

Clostridium tetani survives in soil for many years due to its ability to form endospores, which are incredibly resistant to harsh conditions.

Step-by-step explanation:

The bacterium Clostridium tetani, which causes tetanus, can survive in harsh environments like soil for up to 40 years due to its ability to form endospores. Endospores are resistant structures that allow bacteria to withstand extreme conditions, including lack of nutrients, temperature changes, and desiccation. Out of the options provided, e. an endospore is the correct answer because an endospore is the structure that enables Clostridium tetani to persist in the environment for such an extended period.