The bacterium (Clostridium botulinum) that causes botulism is :

Correct answer: C. An obligate anaerobe

  • A. An obligate aerobe
  • B. A facultative anaerobe
  • C. An obligate anaerobe

Explanation

Clostridium is a genus of gram-positive bacteria. They are obligate anaerobes capable of producing endospores.Individual cells are rod-shaped. Foodborne disease caused by C. botulinum is referred to as botulism (a muscle-paralyzing disease). It is caused by the ingestion of a neurotoxin (botulin) produced by the microorganism in the food. Botulin blocks nerve function, leading to respiratory and musculoskeletal paralysis. Symptoms of botulism include weakness, fatigue, and dizziness, followed by blurred vision and progressive difficulty in speaking and swallowing. Weakening of the respiratory muscles is also observed, and death may occur due to respiratory failure.

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