Glycocalyx (mucilage sheath) of a bacterial cell may occur in the form of a loose sheath called _________ or it may be thick and tough called ________.

Options

A. capsule, slime layer
B. slime layer, capsule
C. mesosome, capsule
D. mesosome, slime layer

Answer

B

Explanation

Glycocalyx (mucilage sheath) is the outermost layer of the bacterial with cell envelope which consists of non-cellulosic polysaccharides with or without proteins. It may occur in the from of loose sheath, called slime layer. If it is a thick covering, it is called capsule. Glycocalyx gives sticky character to the cell and is not absolutely essential for survival of bacteria. It and viruses and serves in attachment. It may give selective advantage though in certain situations.