Final answer:
Pathogens grow most rapidly in the temperature range of 20 °C to about 45 °C.
Step-by-step explanation:
Pathogens, which are disease-causing microorganisms, usually fall under the category of mesophiles. Mesophiles grow best at moderate temperatures in the range of 20 °C to about 45 °C. While some microorganisms may have specific temperature requirements, pathogens tend to thrive within this temperature range. It is important to note that adaptations to cold and hot temperatures require changes in the composition of membrane lipids and proteins.