What is the growth requirement for Campylobacter jejuni?

Campylobacter jejuni requires a microaerophilic environment for optimal growth, meaning it thrives in conditions that have lower oxygen levels than are found in the atmosphere but still require some oxygen. Specifically, the organism grows best at temperatures around 42°C, which is higher than the standard body temperature of humans and aligns with its natural habitat in the intestines of warm-blooded animals, particularly birds.

This preference for a higher temperature and a specific oxygen concentration is critical for distinguishing C. jejuni from other bacteria in laboratory settings. The requirement for a microaerophilic environment highlights its adaptation to its ecological niche, which often involves exposure to limited amounts of oxygen. That is why the correct response emphasizes both the oxygen requirement and temperature preference for effective growth in lab cultures.