How many of the following microbial products are produced by bacteria? Citric acid, Butyric acid, Lactic acid, Gluconic acid, Acetic acid

Options

A. Two
B. Four
C. Five
D. Three

Answer

To determine how many of the listed microbial products are produced by bacteria, we will analyze each product one by one.

1. **Citric Acid**:
- Citric acid is produced by the fungus *Aspergillus niger*.
- Therefore, this product is **not produced by bacteria**.

2. **Butyric Acid**:
- Butyric acid is produced by the bacterium *Clostridium*.
- Therefore, this product **is produced by bacteria**.

3. **Lactic Acid**:
- Lactic acid is produced by the bacterium *Lactobacillus*.
- Therefore, this product **is produced by bacteria**.

4. **Gluconic Acid**:
- Gluconic acid is produced by the fungus *Aspergillus niger*.
- Therefore, this product is **not produced by bacteria**.

5. **Acetic Acid**:
- Acetic acid is produced by bacteria, specifically by species of *Clostridium* and *Acetobacter*.
- Therefore, this product **is produced by bacteria**.

Now, let's summarize the findings:

- **Produced by Bacteria**:
- Butyric Acid
- Lactic Acid
- Acetic Acid

- **Not Produced by Bacteria**:
- Citric Acid
- Gluconic Acid

In total, there are **3 microbial products** (Butyric Acid, Lactic Acid, and Acetic Acid) that are produced by bacteria.

**Final Answer**: 3

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