Microbiology: An Introduction, 11th Edition

Published by Benjamin Cummings
ISBN 10: 0321733606
ISBN 13: 978-0-32173-360-3

Chapter 4 - Functional Anatomy of Prokaryotic and Eukaryotic Cells - Study Questions - Review - Page 109: 5

Answer

It allows the cell to rest during adverse conditions.

Work Step by Step

As referred to in question four, the endospore allows the cell to survive harsh environmental conditions. Since one of the main functions of a cell is to reproduce, the endospore is referred to as a resting structure because it simply tries to keep the cell alive as opposed to helping the cell reproduce. (Also, during adverse environmental conditions, the cell is unlikely to reproduce.)
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