Which of the following bacteria is known for its ability to form spores?

The correct answer highlights Clostridium and Bacillus as bacteria known for their ability to form spores. Spore formation is a significant survival mechanism for these organisms, allowing them to endure extreme environmental conditions, such as heat, desiccation, and exposure to chemicals.

Clostridium species, which include Clostridium botulinum and Clostridium tetani, form spores that can survive in harsh conditions and emerge when environmental conditions are favorable, contributing to their persistence in both natural and clinical settings. Similarly, Bacillus species, notably Bacillus anthracis, are also spore-forming bacteria known for causing anthrax and other diseases.

In contrast, the other groups of bacteria mentioned do not exhibit spore formation. Streptococcus and Staphylococcus are examples of non-spore-forming bacteria that can cause various infections but lack the capability to form spores. Lactobacillus is a beneficial bacterium involved in fermentation and does not form spores, while E. coli is a common gut bacterium that also does not have this capability. Salmonella and Shigella are pathogenic bacteria but do not form spores either, relying on other mechanisms to survive and infect hosts. Thus, the ability to form spores is a distinctive and critical survival strategy