Food poisoning (botulism) is caused by the infection of a species of

Options

A. Azotobacter
B. Clostridium
C. Lactobacillus
D. Rhizobium

Answer

**Step-by-Step Solution:**

1. **Understanding the Question**: The question asks which species causes food poisoning known as botulism.

2. **Identifying the Options**: The options provided are:
- A) Azotobacter
- B) Clostridium
- C) Lactobacillus
- D) Rhizobium

3. **Defining Botulism**: Botulism is a rare but serious illness caused by a toxin produced by a specific bacterium.

4. **Identifying the Causative Agent**: The bacterium responsible for botulism is known as *Clostridium botulinum*. This bacterium produces a potent toxin that leads to the symptoms of food poisoning.

5. **Understanding the Environment**: *Clostridium botulinum* thrives in low-oxygen environments, such as improperly canned foods, where it can produce its toxin.

6. **Selecting the Correct Option**: Based on the information, the correct answer to the question is option B, which is *Clostridium*.

**Final Answer**: Food poisoning (botulism) is caused by the infection of a species of *Clostridium*.

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