foundations in microbiology test bank Related

Review foundations in microbiology test bank related questions and content

What is the function of bacterial pili?

  • A. Provide motility
  • B. Aid in adhesion
  • C. Form spores
  • D. Synthesize proteins
Correct Answer: B

Rationale: The function of bacterial pili is to aid in adhesion. Pili are hair-like structures on the bacterial surface that help the bacteria attach to surfaces or other cells. This adhesion is crucial for colonization and infection. Pili do not provide motility, as that is typically done by flagella. Bacteria form spores for survival under harsh conditions, and protein synthesis is carried out by ribosomes, not pili. Thus, the correct answer is B, aiding in adhesion.