Question
Biology Question on biotechnology
A genetically engineered bacteria used for clearing oil spills is
A
Escherischia coli
B
Bacillus subtilis
C
Agrobacterium tumifaciens
D
Pseudomonas putida
Answer
Pseudomonas putida
Explanation
Solution
Pseudomonas putida is a bacterium that has been genetically engineered to break down hydrocarbons, the main components of oil. This makes it a useful tool for bioremediation, the process of cleaning up contaminated environments. When Pseudomonas putida is introduced to an oil spill, it can rapidly reproduce and break down the oil into harmless byproducts.
Here is why others are not recommended:
- Escherichia coli: E. coli is a bacterium that lives in the intestines of humans and other animals. While some strains of E. coli can break down hydrocarbons, they are not typically used for bioremediation because they can also cause disease.
- Bacillus subtilis: Bacillus subtilis is a soil bacterium that can degrade a variety of organic compounds, but it is not particularly effective at breaking down hydrocarbons.
- Agrobacterium tumefaciens: Agrobacterium tumefaciens is a bacterium that causes tumors in plants. It is not used for bioremediation.
Thus, the right answer to this question is Pseudomonas putida**.**