openstax microbiology test bank Related

Review openstax microbiology test bank related questions and content

The Ziehl-Neelsen stain is used to detect:

  • A. Gram-positive bacteria
  • B. Acid-fast bacteria
  • C. Capsulated bacteria
  • D. Fungal spores
Correct Answer: B

Rationale: The Ziehl-Neelsen stain is specifically designed to detect acid-fast bacteria like Mycobacterium tuberculosis. It utilizes a carbol fuchsin dye that binds to the high lipid content in the cell wall of acid-fast bacteria, making them appear red under a microscope. This staining method is crucial for the diagnosis of tuberculosis and leprosy. Gram-positive bacteria (Choice A) are not detected by this stain since they have a different cell wall structure. Capsulated bacteria (Choice C) and fungal spores (Choice D) also have distinct characteristics that are not targeted by the Ziehl-Neelsen stain.