Which characteristic describes Clostridium perfringens?

Which characteristic describes Clostridium perfringens?

• A. Spore-forming and anaerobic
• B. Non-spore-forming and aerobic
• C. Motile, curved rod
• D. Acid-fast bacillus

Answer: (A)

Clostridium perfringens is an obligate anaerobe that forms endospores. This combination—spore-forming and anaerobic—is what defines it, since the spores help the organism survive in challenging conditions and it grows best without oxygen. That’s why describing it as spore-forming and anaerobic is the best match. It isn’t described as non-spore-forming or aerobic, and it isn’t an acid-fast bacillus. It also isn’t characterized by a curved motile shape.

Clostridium perfringens is an obligate anaerobe that forms endospores. This combination—spore-forming and anaerobic—is what defines it, since the spores help the organism survive in challenging conditions and it grows best without oxygen. That’s why describing it as spore-forming and anaerobic is the best match. It isn’t described as non-spore-forming or aerobic, and it isn’t an acid-fast bacillus. It also isn’t characterized by a curved motile shape.