Which of the following statements correctly applies to endospores?

• A. They are metabolic byproducts secreted during fermentation.
• B. They are highly resistant structures formed by certain bacteria to survive extreme conditions.
• C. They are viral particles released during bacterial lysis.
• D. They are reproductive cells produced by all bacteria for rapid population growth.

Answer: (B)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Step 1: Understand what endospores are in the context of microbiology. Endospores are specialized structures formed by certain bacteria, not all bacteria, as a survival mechanism.
2. Step 2: Recognize that endospores are not metabolic byproducts or secretions; instead, they are formed inside the bacterial cell to protect the genetic material under harsh environmental conditions.
3. Step 3: Note that endospores are not viral particles. Viruses and bacteria are distinct entities, and viral particles are unrelated to bacterial endospore formation.
4. Step 4: Understand that endospores are not reproductive cells. They do not contribute to rapid population growth but rather help bacteria survive until conditions improve.
5. Step 5: Conclude that the correct statement is that endospores are highly resistant structures formed by certain bacteria to survive extreme conditions, such as heat, desiccation, and chemicals.