EVERYDAY SCIENCE

Detailed explanation-1: -Bacteria can be classified by their need and tolerance for oxygen: Facultative: Grow aerobically or anaerobically in the presence or absence of oxygen. Microaerophilic: Require a low oxygen concentration (typically 2 to 10%) and, for many, a high carbon dioxide concentration (eg, 10%); grow very poorly anaerobically.

Detailed explanation-2: -The 3 anaerobes commonly isolated are Fusobacterium, Prevotella, and Bacteroides.

Detailed explanation-3: -Anaerobic bacteria are bacteria that do not live or grow when oxygen is present. In humans, these bacteria are most commonly found in the gastrointestinal tract. They play a role in conditions such as appendicitis, diverticulitis, and perforation of the bowel.

Detailed explanation-4: -Anaerobic bacteria predominate in normal skin and the bacterial flora of mucous membranes. Infections caused by anaerobic bacteria are common, arise from the sites where they are normal flora (endogenous) and can be serious or life-threatening.