Question

Explain in detail how the microorganisms are classified based on their temperature dependence

Answer 1

On the basis of temperature microorganisms can be classified into the following categories

1. psychrophiles: these can grow at 0 or below degree celsius. but their optimal growing temperature is 15-20 degree celsius. and those which are growing at 0 degree but their optimal temperature is 25 degree celsius, it is called as facultative psychrophiles or psychrotrophs.  

2. Mesophiles : they can grow in 25- 40 degree celsius. but their optimum temperature is 37 degree celsius.

3. Thermophiles: these grow in hot environment above 45 -50 degree celsius temperature.  those which grow in more than 80-90 degree celsius temperature are called a hyperthermophiles.