Which type of bacteria will multiply in temperatures between 104 and 176 degrees?

Thermophiles are a group of bacteria that thrive and multiply in high-temperature environments, specifically between 104 and 176 degrees Fahrenheit. This characteristic allows them to flourish in settings such as compost heaps or hot springs, where temperatures exceed that of most other microbial life forms. Understanding the temperature ranges for different types of bacteria is crucial for food safety management practices, as it informs how to control microbial growth in food preparation and storage.

In contrast, psychrophiles prefer cold temperatures, usually below 68 degrees Fahrenheit, while mesophiles grow best in moderate temperatures, typically between 68 and 104 degrees Fahrenheit. Pathogens can consist of various bacteria, but their growth can occur across a range of temperatures, not specifically in the elevated range associated with thermophiles. A clear understanding of these distinctions helps in implementing effective food safety protocols to prevent bacterial growth.