Final answer:
The six NTM species in decreasing speed of growth are Mycobacterium chelonae, Mycobacterium fortuitum, Mycobacterium abscessus, Mycobacterium avium complex, Mycobacterium kansasii, and Mycobacterium xenopi. Mycobacterium chelonae has the fastest growth rate, while Mycobacterium xenopi has the slowest growth rate.
Step-by-step explanation:
NTM (Nontuberculous Mycobacteria)
- Mycobacterium chelonae
- Mycobacterium fortuitum
- Mycobacterium abscessus
- Mycobacterium avium complex
- Mycobacterium kansasii
- Mycobacterium xenopi
These nontuberculous mycobacteria are classified based on their growth speed in culture. The listed species are commonly found in environmental sources like water and soil. Mycobacterium chelonae grows the fastest, while Mycobacterium xenopi grows the slowest among the six species mentioned.