Question

Explain what advantages a type of bacteria that produce catalase may have over bacteria that do not produce catalase?

Answer 1

Catalase is an enzyme, which is produced by microorganisms which live in oxygenated environments. This enzyme is responsible to neutralize the toxic forms of oxygen metabolites like H₂O₂. It is also responsible to neutralize the bactericidal effects of hydrogen peroxide and protects the microorganisms. Anaerobes generally lack the catalase enzyme. This enzyme mediates the breakdown of hydrogen peroxide H₂O₂ into oxygen and water. Catalase-positive bacteria are aerobes or facultative anaerobes. They all have the ability to respire using oxygen as a terminal electron acceptor. Catalase-negative bacteria are anaerobes or facultative anaerobes that only can ferment and do not respire using oxygen as a terminal electron acceptor (example: Streptococci).