What type of environment does Campylobacter jejuni require for growth?

Campylobacter jejuni is a bacterium that has specific requirements for growth, reflecting its natural habitat and ecological niche. It thrives in a microaerophilic environment, which means it requires lower levels of oxygen than are present in the atmosphere but still needs some oxygen for its metabolic processes to function. The optimal conditions for the growth of Campylobacter jejuni typically include environments with approximately 5-10% oxygen, 10-15% carbon dioxide, and 80-85% nitrogen.

This unique requirement for a microaerophilic atmosphere is significant in food safety because it affects where and how this pathogen can survive and grow, particularly in food products that are not stored properly. Understanding the specific growth conditions helps in developing effective prevention strategies that target the bacterium in potentially hazardous foods and environments. Hence, the designation of microaerophilic as the correct answer highlights the specialized nature of Campylobacter jejuni and its implications for food safety practices.