Bacteria Are Rarely Larger Than 1-2 m in Size

Multiple Choice

Bacteria are rarely larger than 1-2 m in size, and are typically shaped like rods, spheres, or spirals. What likely accounts for the shape and size of these prokaryotes?

A) Such shapes likely make it difficult for predators to catch bacteria.
B) Such shapes can accommodate the complex arrangements of plasmids within bacteria.
C) Such shapes facilitate the formation of pili in bacteria.
D) Such shapes maximize the surface area over which nutrients can diffuse into bacteria.
E) Such shapes both facilitate the formation of pili in bacteria and maximize the surface area over which nutrients can diffuse into bacteria.