Question

Which structures are less susceptible to UV damage?

- Fungal spores
- Endospores
- Protozoan cysts
- Vegetative bacterial cells

Answer 1

Endospores are less susceptible to UV damage as they enclose the DNA and help it survive under harsh conditions.

Step-by-step explanation:

The structures that are less susceptible to UV damage are endospores, as they enclose the DNA and help it survive under conditions that may kill the cell. Endospores are commonly found in soil and water. The other structures mentioned, such as fungal spores, protozoan cysts, and vegetative bacterial cells, are more susceptible to UV damage.

Answer 2

Endospores are the least susceptible to UV damage compared to fungal spores, protozoan cysts, and vegetative bacterial cells, because they are specialized structures that bacteria form under stress to protect their DNA.

Step-by-step explanation:

Of the structures listed, endospores are the least susceptible to UV damage. Endospores are highly resistant dormant structures formed by some bacteria in response to stress, such as UV radiation, high temperatures, or harsh chemicals. They enclose the DNA and protect it from external environmental conditions that can cause harm or death to the cell. In contrast, fungal spores, protozoan cysts, and especially vegetative bacterial cells are more susceptible to UV damage, with vegetative bacterial cells being the least resistant as they are typically in an active state of growth and less protected.

Fungal spores and protozoan cysts are also resistant structures but not to the same extent as endospores. While they can endure extreme conditions to some degree, they do not have the same level of resilience against UV radiation as the highly specialized endospores that certain bacteria produce.