Glycocalyx (mucilage sheath) of a bacterial cell may occur in the form of a loose sheath called _____ or it may be thick and tough called _____.
A
Capsule, Slime layer
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B
Slime layer, Capsule
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C
Mesosome, Capsule
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D
Mesosome, Slime layer
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Solution
The correct option is D Slime layer, Capsule Glycocalyx (mucilage sheath) is the outermost layer of the bacterial cell envelope which consists of non-cellulosic polysaccharides with or without proteins. It may occur in the form of loose sheath, called slime layer. If it is a thick covering, it is called capsule. Glycocalyx gives sticky character to the cell and is not absolutely essential for survival of bacteria. It prevents desiccating, protects from phagocytes, toxic chemicals and viruses and serves in attachment. It may give selective advantage through in certain situations.