Index >> Bacterial Structure >> Endospore Formation

Endospore Formation - Sporulation in Bacillus takes place only under aerobic conditions, while in Clostridium it is strictly anaerobic.

The morphological and biochemical events characterising sporulation are brought about when an essential growth metabolite goes down below a certain level.

Vegeta­tive growth and division cease during sporulation. An asymmetric cell division which brings about spore formation occurs, producing a forespore within the mother cell.

Endospores show no detectable metabo­lism. They can remain in a state of extreme dormancy for long periods, and are tolerant td heat, radiation and bactericidal agents.