Bacteria are able to adhere to substrates and to other individuals by using which structures?
A)capsules and endospores
B)capsules and fimbriae
C)endospores and fimbriae
D)fimbriae and plasmids
E)fimbriae and flagella

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Bacteria are able to adhere to substrates and to other individuals by using structures called fimbriae, which are thin, hair-like appendages that protrude from the surface of the cell. Capsules are not involved in adhesion, but rather serve to protect the bacteria from their environment. Endospores are dormant, resistant structures that form inside some bacteria, and are not involved in adhesion. Plasmids are small, circular pieces of DNA that can be exchanged between bacteria, but do not play a role in adhesion. Flagella are whip-like appendages that bacteria use for movement, but are not involved in adhesion.

Bacteria Are Able to Adhere to Substrates and to Other