What is the typical characteristic of bacteria classified as mesophilic?

Mesophilic bacteria are defined by their optimal growth temperature, which typically ranges from 20°C to 45°C (68°F to 113°F). This moderate temperature range aligns with the thermal conditions found in many natural and human-made environments, making mesophiles highly versatile and widespread. Their adaptation to these temperatures is crucial for various ecological processes, as they often inhabit environments such as soil, compost, and the human body, where they play significant roles in decomposition and nutrient cycling.

While some bacteria thrive at low temperatures (psychrophiles) or high temperatures (thermophiles), mesophilic bacteria are specifically characterized by their preference for moderate temperatures, which is why this particular choice correctly identifies their typical characteristics. The adaptability to extreme environments mentioned in another choice refers to extremophiles, which are not representative of mesophiles. Thus, understanding the thermal habitats that mesophilic bacteria occupy is essential for grasping their role in microbiology and their applications in industries like food production and biotechnology.