Which bacteria are known for forming endospores?

Bacillus and Clostridium are well-known for their ability to form endospores, which are highly resistant structures that allow bacteria to survive extreme environmental conditions, including heat, desiccation, and chemical exposure. Endospores are formed during a process called sporulation when conditions become unfavorable for vegetative growth.

Bacillus species, such as Bacillus subtilis, are aerobic or facultatively anaerobic and form endospores to endure harsh conditions. Clostridium species, including Clostridium botulinum and Clostridium tetani, are anaerobic and also produce endospores as a means of survival in environments lacking oxygen.

This ability to form endospores is significant in microbiology, as it plays a role in the transmission of diseases associated with these genera and presents challenges for sterilization and disinfection procedures in both clinical and laboratory settings.