The strain Neurospora which grows on minimal media is called
(a) Autotroph
(b) Prototroph
(c) Auxotroph
(d) Heterotroph

Options

A. Autotroph
B. Prototroph
C. Auxotroph
D. Heterotroph

Answer

To determine which strain of Neurospora grows on minimal media, we need to analyze the options provided:

1. **Understanding Minimal Media**: Minimal media refers to a growth medium that contains only the essential nutrients required for the growth of certain microorganisms. Organisms that can grow on minimal media are typically capable of synthesizing their own nutrients from basic inorganic sources.

2. **Evaluating the Options**:
- **(a) Autotroph**: Autotrophs are organisms that can produce their own food from inorganic substances. They can grow on minimal media because they do not require additional organic nutrients. However, this term is more general and not specific to the Neurospora strain.

- **(b) Prototroph**: Prototrophs are organisms that can grow on minimal media because they can synthesize all the necessary compounds from basic nutrients. This means they do not require any additional growth factors. Neurospora strains that can grow on minimal media fall into this category.

- **(c) Auxotroph**: Auxotrophs are mutants that cannot synthesize a particular nutrient due to a mutation and thus require a nutrient-rich medium to grow. They cannot grow on minimal media because they lack the ability to produce certain essential nutrients.

- **(d) Heterotroph**: Heterotrophs are organisms that cannot synthesize their own food and must obtain it from other organisms. They typically require more complex media and cannot grow on minimal media.

3. **Conclusion**: Based on the definitions and characteristics of each type of organism, the strain of Neurospora that grows on minimal media is best classified as a **Prototroph**.

**Final Answer**: (b) Prototroph

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