Questions: Select the microbial characteristics that can be observed through staining and microscopy. morphology gram reaction arrangement size

The microbial characteristics that can be observed through staining and microscopy are:

1. Morphology
2. Gram reaction
3. Arrangement
4. Size

Explanation:

• Morphology: This refers to the shape and structure of the microorganisms, which can be observed under a microscope after staining.
• Gram reaction: This is determined by Gram staining, which differentiates bacteria into Gram-positive and Gram-negative based on the characteristics of their cell walls.
• Arrangement: This refers to how the microorganisms are grouped or arranged (e.g., chains, clusters), which can be seen under a microscope.
• Size: The size of the microorganisms can be measured using microscopy.

The other options, "citrate permease enzyme activity" and "ability to ferment lactose," are biochemical characteristics that require specific biochemical tests and cannot be observed directly through staining and microscopy.