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The cell wall of some bacteria is surrounded by a structure with a thick, gelatinous consistency, called a______________ that may help the bacteria to stick to surfaces.

1. Capsule
2. Biofilm
3. Matrix
4. Slime layer

User Blafasel
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1 Answer

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Final answer:

The thick, gelatinous structure surrounding the cell wall of some bacteria, helping them adhere to surfaces and protect against harsh conditions, is known as a capsule. It plays a critical role in the formation of biofilms, like dental plaque, and contributes to bacterial colonization and infection.

Step-by-step explanation:

The structure surrounding the cell wall of some bacteria with a thick, gelatinous consistency is known as a capsule. This extracellular structure allows the bacteria to adhere to surfaces and resist desiccation. The capsule is also involved in the protection against chemicals and is a key component enabling the bacteria to form biofilms, such as dental plaque on teeth. A less organized and more easily washable layer called a slime layer can also fulfill a similar function for bacterial adherence. These capabilities play a significant role in bacterial colonization and infection.Bacterial cell walls contain peptidoglycan, essential for maintaining cell shape and preventing osmotic lysis. Biofilms represent colonies of prokaryotes attached to a surface, which can result from the action of the capsule allowing individual cells to stick together and to the surface they colonize. The presence of a capsule is a defining feature in differentiating types of bacteria and in understanding their pathogenic mechanisms.

User Veronika
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