The term ‘glycocalyx’ is used for

Options

(a) A layer surrounding the cell wall of bacteria
(b) A layer present between cell wall and membrane of bacteria
(c) Cell wall of bacteria
(d) Bacterial cell glyco-engineered to possess N-glycosylated proteins

Correct Answer:

A layer surrounding the cell wall of bacteria

Explanation:

Glycocalyx or mucilage is the outermost coating of bacterial cells/cell wall which is rich in polysaccharides. A thick and tougher mucilage is called capsule which gives gummy or sticky trait to cells. It protects the cells from dessication, toxins and preventing attachment to foreign invaders.