How does temperature influence microbial growth?

Temperature plays a crucial role in microbial growth because it affects the metabolic activities of different microorganisms. Each type of microorganism has a specific range of temperatures—termed its optimal temperature range—where it grows best. Within this range, the enzymatic reactions that drive metabolism occur at their maximum rates, leading to increased cell division and overall growth.

For example, psychrophiles thrive at low temperatures, while thermophiles prefer high temperatures. Understanding these preferences helps in various applications, such as food storage, clinical diagnosis, and microbiological research.

The other options inaccurately reflect the relationship between temperature and microbial growth. Not all microorganisms thrive at the same temperature; each has specific requirements. Additionally, stating that temperature does not affect microbial growth or that microorganisms can only grow at ambient temperature overlooks the vast diversity of microbial life and its adaptations to different thermal environments.