What does bacteriostasis mean?

• A. Growth of bacteria is enhanced
• B. Bacterial growth is inhibited, but organisms are not killed
• C. Complete destruction of bacteria
• D. Growth of fungi is inhibited

Answer: (B)

Bacteriostasis refers to a condition where the growth and reproduction of bacteria are inhibited, but the bacteria themselves are not killed. This state allows bacteria to remain viable but not actively multiplying. In practical applications, bacteriostatic agents are used in various settings, such as medical environments, to control bacterial populations without necessarily eliminating them.

In terms of the remaining options, while enhancing bacterial growth or inhibiting fungal growth may describe other processes or actions related to microbial control, they do not accurately define the concept of bacteriostasis. Complete destruction of bacteria represents a different concept entirely, known as bactericidal action, wherein bacteria are killed rather than merely suppressed.