AP BIOLOGY

Detailed explanation-1: -The thermophilic DNA enzyme Taq polymerase, an enzyme that makes many copies of DNA pieces, was first obtained from the thermophile Thermus aquaticus from Yellowstone National Park. This thermophile creates the yellow-mustard color found in many hot springs around Yellowstone’s Lower Geyser Basin.

Detailed explanation-2: -Taq DNA polymerase is an enzyme taken from the heat-loving bacteria? Thermus aquaticus. This bacteria normally lives in hot springs so can tolerate temperatures above 80⁰C.

Detailed explanation-3: -Taq polymerase is the heat-stable (thermostable) DNA polymerase extracted from the thermophilic bacteria Thermus aquaticus.

Detailed explanation-4: -The main reasons that make Thermus aquaticus (Taq) perfect for DNA sequencing are that it’s active across a wide range of temperatures and as such is able to withstand the protein denaturing necessary during PCR so that PCR cycles can be automated, since the polymerase doesn’t need to be added for each cycle.

Detailed explanation-5: -Thermus aquaticus is the scientific name for a bacterium that grows in hot springs. This bacterium was first discovered in 1969 at a place we’re probably all familiar with: Yellowstone National Park. If you’ve ever been there, you might remember the vibrant colors you can see at the hot springs.