To date, most of our natural antibiotics have been found to be produced by members of which bacterial genus?

• A. Streptomyces
• B. Escherichia
• C. Bacillus
• D. Clostridium

Answer: (A)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Understand that the question is asking about the bacterial genus most known for producing natural antibiotics.
2. Recall that natural antibiotics are compounds produced by microorganisms that inhibit the growth of or kill other microorganisms.
3. Recognize that the genus Streptomyces is famous for its ability to produce a wide variety of antibiotics, such as streptomycin, tetracycline, and chloramphenicol.
4. Note that while other genera like Bacillus can produce some antibiotics, Streptomyces is the primary and most prolific source.
5. Conclude that the genus Streptomyces is the correct answer because it has been the richest source of natural antibiotics discovered to date.