A genetically engineered bacterium first used for cleaning the oil spills, was a species of

Options

A. Escherichia
B. Pseudomonus
C. Bacillus
D. Rhizobium

Answer

**Step-by-Step Solution:**

1. **Identify the Question**: The question asks for the species of a genetically engineered bacterium that was first used for cleaning oil spills.

2. **Recall Relevant Information**: The bacterium used for cleaning oil spills is known for its ability to break down hydrocarbons, which are the main components of oil.

3. **Determine the Correct Bacterium**: The bacterium that is specifically mentioned as being genetically engineered for this purpose is *Pseudomonas*.

4. **Explain the Characteristics**:
- *Pseudomonas* is a gram-negative, aerobic, chemoheterotrophic bacterium.
- Chemoheterotrophic means it derives energy from organic compounds, which is essential for breaking down the hydrocarbons found in oil spills.

5. **Discuss the Mechanism**: This bacterium can metabolize both aliphatic and aromatic hydrocarbons, which are common in oil spills. By taking in these toxic compounds, *Pseudomonas* converts them into energy, effectively cleaning the contaminated environment.

6. **Conclude with the Answer**: Therefore, the genetically engineered bacterium first used for cleaning oil spills is *Pseudomonas*.

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