Why is a capsule advantageous to a bacterium?

Options

(a) It allows the bacterium to attach to the surface
(b) It protects the bacterium from desiccation
(c) It provides means of locomotion
(d) It allows bacterium to “hide” from host’s immune system

Correct Answer:

It allows bacterium to “hide” from host’s immune system

Explanation:

Capsule is a layer that lies outside the cell wall of bacteria. The capsule can protect cells from engulfment by eukaryotic cells, such as macrophages. They also exclude bacterial viruses and most hydrophobic toxic materials such as detergents.