A microbiologist working with Mycobacteria notes following colonies grow on LowensteinJensen media. Which mycobacteria is he working with?
**Core Concept**
The question tests the ability to identify Mycobacteria based on their growth characteristics on specific media, such as Lowenstein-Jensen media. **Mycobacterium tuberculosis** is a key organism in this context, known for its slow growth and specific requirements.
**Why the Correct Answer is Right**
**Mycobacterium tuberculosis** grows on Lowenstein-Jensen media, which is a selective medium for this bacterium due to its unique composition, including malachite green that inhibits the growth of other bacteria. The slow growth of **M. tuberculosis** is also characteristic, taking several weeks to form visible colonies.
**Why Each Wrong Option is Incorrect**
**Option A:** Incorrect because it doesn't specify the correct Mycobacteria.
**Option B:** Incorrect as it is not the correct Mycobacteria being described in the context.
**Option C:** Incorrect because, similar to Option A, it does not accurately identify the Mycobacteria in question.
**Option D:** Incorrect as the description provided does not match this option.
**Clinical Pearl / High-Yield Fact**
A key point to remember is that **Mycobacterium tuberculosis** is the causative agent of tuberculosis and has specific growth requirements, making Lowenstein-Jensen media ideal for its cultivation.
**Correct Answer:** D. Mycobacterium tuberculosis