Question

What does the term mesophile mean?

a. Grow well at body temperature.
b. Grow well at 85 degrees Celsius.
c. Grow well at refrigerator temperatures.
d. Grow well at 55 degrees Celsius.

Answer 1

Mesophiles are microorganisms that thrive at moderate temperatures, often around normal human body temperature, which is approximately 37°C (98.6°F). Hence, they grow well at body temperature.

Step-by-step explanation:

The term mesophile refers to microorganisms that grow best at moderate temperatures, specifically within the range of 20°C to about 45°C. Among the options given, mesophiles grow well at body temperature, which is typically around 37°C (98.6°F). This temperature is the optimal growth temperature for many pathogenic mesophiles. Therefore, the correct answer to the question is:

a. Grow well at body temperature.

Mesophilic organisms are commonly found living on or inside the human body and are often involved in food processing, such as the making of cheese, yogurt, and certain fermented beverages.