Which type of bacteria requires oxygen to survive?

The type of bacteria that requires oxygen to survive is classified as aerobic. These bacteria thrive in environments where oxygen is present, as they utilize it for cellular respiration to produce energy. Aerobic bacteria are essential in many ecological processes, including the breakdown of organic matter, and they play a crucial role in the food industry and wastewater treatment, where oxygen is integral to bacterial growth and activity.

In contrast, obligate anaerobic bacteria cannot survive in the presence of oxygen and may even be harmed by it. Facultative anaerobic bacteria can grow in both the presence and absence of oxygen, adapting their metabolism accordingly. Microaerophilic bacteria require lower levels of oxygen than what is found in the atmosphere and prefer environments with reduced oxygen concentrations. Understanding these classifications helps in managing food safety and controlling microbial growth in various settings.