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Which bacteria require oxygen to grow?

  1. Anaerobic bacteria

  2. Facultative bacteria

  3. Obligate aerobe

  4. Pathogenic bacteria

The correct answer is: Obligate aerobe

The correct answer is that obligate aerobes require oxygen to grow. These bacteria have a strict requirement for oxygen as they rely on aerobic respiration to generate the energy they need for survival and reproduction. Without oxygen, obligate aerobes are unable to undergo their metabolic processes effectively, which can lead to their death. Facultative bacteria, while they can grow in the presence of oxygen, are not strictly dependent on it and can also thrive in anaerobic conditions. This flexibility differentiates them from obligate aerobes, who need oxygen to survive. Anaerobic bacteria, on the other hand, thrive in environments devoid of oxygen and may find oxygen toxic. The term "pathogenic bacteria" is broader and encompasses various types of bacteria, including both aerobic and anaerobic organisms, meaning their oxygen requirements can vary widely.