Many of the microbial organisms that are periodically epidemic in human populations have
A) short generation times and low mutation rates.
B) short generation times and high mutation rates.
C) long generation times and low mutation rates.
D) long generation times and high mutation rates.
E) long generation times and no mutations.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Microbial organisms that are epidemic in human populations typically have short generation times, allowing for rapid reproduction and adaptation to changing environmental conditions. Additionally, high mutation rates increase the likelihood of beneficial mutations that can improve the organism's fitness in a new environment. Therefore, option B, short generation times and high mutation rates, is the best answer.

Many of the Microbial Organisms That Are Periodically Epidemic in Human