Anthrax bacilli differs from anthracoid bacilli by being –
**Core Concept**
Anthrax bacilli and anthracoid bacilli are two distinct types of bacteria that can be differentiated based on their morphological and biochemical characteristics. The key difference lies in their ability to produce capsules and toxins.
**Why the Correct Answer is Right**
Anthrax bacilli, specifically *Bacillus anthracis*, produces a capsule made of poly-D-glutamic acid, which is a key virulence factor. This capsule helps the bacteria evade the host's immune system and causes the characteristic edema and tissue damage in anthrax infections. In contrast, anthracoid bacilli, such as *Bacillus cereus* and *Bacillus thuringiensis*, do not produce capsules. The correct answer highlights the importance of capsule production in *B. anthracis*.
**Why Each Wrong Option is Incorrect**
**Option A:** This option is incorrect because it does not specify the key difference between anthrax and anthracoid bacilli. While *B. anthracis* does produce toxins, this characteristic is not unique to anthrax bacilli and is shared by other Bacillus species.
**Option B:** This option is incorrect because it is too vague and does not provide any specific information about the difference between anthrax and anthracoid bacilli.
**Option C:** This option is incorrect because it is not a characteristic that distinguishes anthrax bacilli from anthracoid bacilli.
**Clinical Pearl / High-Yield Fact**
It's essential to remember that the capsule of *B. anthracis* is a critical virulence factor that contributes to the severity of anthrax infections. This capsule is also a target for vaccine development and therapeutic interventions.
**Correct Answer: C.** *B. anthracis* produces a capsule.