A 6.5-month-old infant presented with complaints altered behavior, cyanosis, weak cry, drooling, diminished feeding and constipation for 1 week. On examination, Shallow respiration Generalized flaccidity Absent DTRs Drooping eyelids There was no past history of fever, cough or coryza. The prenatal and antenatal period was uncomplicated. There was normal progression of the developmental milestones. The child was recently staed on pureed foods along with small amounts of honey. Lab studies and CSF studies were normal. SERS based immunoassay revealed a positive test. The motility of the above organism is due to which type of flagella: –

**Core Concept**
The infant's symptoms and positive SERS based immunoassay test suggest an infection caused by *Clostridium botulinum*, a bacterium that produces botulinum toxin. The toxin affects the neuromuscular junction, leading to muscle weakness and flaccidity. The unique motility of this organism is crucial for its pathogenesis.

**Why the Correct Answer is Right**
*Clostridium botulinum* is a Gram-positive, anaerobic, spore-forming bacterium. Its motility is due to peritrichous flagella, which are flagella located all over the surface of the bacterium. This type of flagella allows the bacterium to move efficiently in its environment, facilitating its spread and colonization.

**Why Each Wrong Option is Incorrect**
**Option A:** Monopolar flagella are not characteristic of *Clostridium botulinum*. Monopolar flagella are found in some other bacteria, such as *Escherichia coli*, but not in *Clostridium botulinum*.
**Option B:** Lophotrichous flagella are found in some bacteria, such as *Bacillus subtilis*, but not in *Clostridium botulinum*.
**Option C:** Amphinuchate flagella are not a type of flagella found in *Clostridium botulinum* or any other well-documented bacteria.

**Clinical Pearl / High-Yield Fact**
*Clostridium botulinum* infection in infants can be caused by consuming honey contaminated with the spores of this bacterium. This highlights the importance of avoiding honey in infants under 12 months of age.

**Correct Answer:** C.

✓ Correct Answer: C. <img style="max-width: 100%" src=" />