Acidobacterium capsulatum is a species of bacteria that grows better in the absence of oxygen but can survive if oxygen is present. This species of bacteria also thrives in soil and water with a pH between 3.0 and 6.0. What environmental classifications would this bacterial species fit into?

• A. Extreme Halophile & Mesophile.
• B. Facultative Anaerobe & Acidophile.
• C. Facultative Aerobe & Alkaliphile.

Answer: (B)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Understand the term 'Facultative Anaerobe': This refers to organisms that prefer anaerobic conditions (absence of oxygen) but can survive in the presence of oxygen. Acidobacterium capsulatum fits this classification as it grows better without oxygen but can survive with it.
2. Explore the term 'Acidophile': Acidophiles are organisms that thrive in acidic environments, typically with a pH below 6.0. Since Acidobacterium capsulatum thrives in soil and water with a pH between 3.0 and 6.0, it is classified as an acidophile.
3. Consider the term 'Extreme Halophile': These are organisms that require high salt concentrations to grow, which is not applicable to Acidobacterium capsulatum as there is no mention of salt requirements.
4. Evaluate the term 'Mesophile': Mesophiles are organisms that grow best at moderate temperatures, typically between 20°C and 45°C. While this could be a potential classification, the problem does not provide temperature information.
5. Analyze the term 'Facultative Aerobe & Alkaliphile': Facultative aerobes prefer aerobic conditions but can survive anaerobically, and alkaliphiles thrive in basic environments with a pH above 9.0. Neither of these classifications fit Acidobacterium capsulatum based on the given information.