Why is Bacillus stearothermophilus useful as an indicator of sterility?
A) It is a very common contaminant.
B) Only incineration will destroy it.
C) It has a cell wall containing a waxy compound which protects it from drying and aqueous disinfectants.
D) It forms cysts which resist a wide range of disinfectant methods.
E) It forms endospores, among the most hardy of microbial contaminants.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Bacillus stearothermophilus forms endospores, which are highly resistant to heat and other sterilization methods, making it an ideal indicator for testing the effectiveness of sterilization processes.

Why Is Bacillus Stearothermophilus Useful as an Indicator of Sterility