How do axial filaments differ from regular bacterial flagella in prokaryotic motility?

• A. Axial filaments are located inside the cell membrane, while flagella are external structures.
• B. Axial filaments are composed of microtubules, while flagella are composed of actin.
• C. Axial filaments are found in all bacteria, while flagella are specific to certain species.
• D. Axial filaments are used for attachment, while flagella are used for movement.

Answer: (A)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Understand the basic structure and function of bacterial flagella: Flagella are long, whip-like structures that protrude from the cell body of certain bacteria, allowing them to move. They are primarily composed of the protein flagellin and are external to the cell membrane.
2. Learn about axial filaments: Axial filaments, also known as endoflagella, are found in spirochetes, a group of bacteria. Unlike regular flagella, axial filaments are located within the periplasmic space, between the cell membrane and the outer membrane, and are wrapped around the cell body.
3. Compare the location of axial filaments and flagella: Axial filaments are internal structures located within the periplasmic space, while flagella are external structures that extend outside the cell membrane.
4. Examine the composition of axial filaments and flagella: Axial filaments are not composed of microtubules; they are similar to flagella in that they are made of proteins like flagellin. Microtubules are components of eukaryotic cells, not prokaryotic structures.
5. Clarify the function of axial filaments and flagella: Axial filaments enable the corkscrew motion of spirochetes, aiding in their movement through viscous environments. Flagella, on the other hand, are used for movement in a variety of bacterial species, not for attachment.