Spirochetes have a twisting and flexing locomotion due to appendages called:

• A. axial filaments
• B. pili
• C. flagella
• D. fimbriae

Answer: (A)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Understand the question is asking about the specific appendages responsible for the twisting and flexing movement in spirochetes.
2. Recall that spirochetes are a unique group of bacteria characterized by their spiral shape and distinctive motility.
3. Review the types of bacterial appendages: pili, flagella, fimbriae, and axial filaments, noting their structure and function.
4. Recognize that flagella are external appendages used for swimming in many bacteria, but in spirochetes, the flagella are located between the cell wall and outer membrane, called axial filaments or endoflagella.
5. Conclude that the twisting and flexing locomotion in spirochetes is due to axial filaments, which wrap around the cell body and enable their corkscrew movement.