ENDOSPORES OF CLOSTRIDIUM BOTULINUM

Endospores of Clostridium Botulinum

Endospores of Clostridium Botulinum

Introduction

Clostridium botulinum has been classified into eight different strains. Each strain releases the deadly toxin but in slightly different forms. Humans are susceptible to four of these eight toxins; the other four are deadly in cattle, sheep, and horses. C. botulinum is a strict anaerobe, meaning it survives only in conditions completely lacking oxygen. In fact, the presence of oxygen kills C. botulinum. However, the bacteria can survive for long periods of time by producing endospores. Endospores are small, protective capsules that surround the bacteria. They can withstand unbelievable ...