Which statement does NOT describe the spores produced by Bacillus anthracis, causative agent of anthrax?

Which statement does NOT describe the spores produced by Bacillus anthracis, causative agent of anthrax?

• A. Sensitive to UV light
• B. Form endospores
• C. Survive long environmental periods
• D. Are highly resistant to heat and drying

Answer: (A)

Bacillus anthracis forms endospores that are extraordinarily durable, allowing them to endure harsh environmental conditions for long periods. These spores are designed to resist heat and drying, protecting the genetic material and enabling persistence in soil and animal products. UV light, on the other hand, is not a defining weakness of these spores; they are relatively resistant to UV radiation, with inactivation requiring substantial exposure or additional means. So the statement claiming that these spores are sensitive to UV light does not describe their true properties, making it the exception among the options.

Bacillus anthracis forms endospores that are extraordinarily durable, allowing them to endure harsh environmental conditions for long periods. These spores are designed to resist heat and drying, protecting the genetic material and enabling persistence in soil and animal products. UV light, on the other hand, is not a defining weakness of these spores; they are relatively resistant to UV radiation, with inactivation requiring substantial exposure or additional means. So the statement claiming that these spores are sensitive to UV light does not describe their true properties, making it the exception among the options.