Which is the correct order of bacteria classifications based on temperature ranges, from colder to hotter?

The correct order of bacteria classifications based on temperature ranges, from colder to hotter, begins with psychrophilic bacteria, which thrive in cold environments, typically at temperatures below 15 degrees Celsius (59 degrees Fahrenheit). These organisms are adapted to live in cold waters and glacial ice.

Next, mesophilic bacteria are those that grow optimally in moderate temperature ranges, typically between 20 to 45 degrees Celsius (68 to 113 degrees Fahrenheit). These bacteria are commonly found in soil and the human body, where temperatures are conducive to their growth.

Finally, thermophilic bacteria are adapted to thrive in high temperatures, usually above 45 degrees Celsius (113 degrees Fahrenheit), and can often be found in hot springs and compost heaps.

The correct sequence reflects the increasing temperature preference of the bacteria groups, moving from those that prefer cold temperatures to those that thrive in hotter conditions. This understanding is vital in wastewater treatment processes, where microbial activity at various temperature ranges can significantly affect the efficiency and effectiveness of treatment methods.