Question

Which of the following statements about endospores is TRUE?

a) Endospores form to allow sexual reproduction of prokaryotes
b) Endospores can be easily destroyed with heat or desiccation
c) Endospores form in response to harsh/unfavorable environmental conditions
d) Endospores do not survive in the environment for more than a few days

Answer 1

Option-A

Step-by-step explanation:

Endospores are the tough, dormant and non-reproductive structures formed by the bacteria in a harsh environment or nutrient-deprived condition.

The endospores help in the survival of the bacteria in extreme conditions as they are resistant to the heat, UV light, high temperature, chemical and enzymatic actions.

The different layers of the endospore structure help in providing resistance to the extreme conditions and the enclosed DNA help in maintaining the germplasm of the bacteria.

Thus, Option-A is the correct answer.

Answer 2

Endospores from in response to harsh/unfavorable environmental conditions.

Step-by-step explanation:

Endospore may be defined as the tough, resistant spores that are covered by the hard layer in case of some bacteria. These endospores are non reproductive in nature.

The endospores are mainly form for the protection from the harsh environmental conditions. Excess cold, heat, saline and drought conditions triggers the formation of endospore in the special class of bacteria and returns to the normal spores when environmental conditions are favorable.

Thus, the correct answer is option (d).