Which bacterium is unusually resistant to heat?

Clostridium botulinum is known for its unusual resistance to heat primarily due to the presence of heat-resistant spores. These spores can survive boiling temperatures and require extremely high temperatures to be effectively destroyed. This characteristic poses significant food safety risks, as the spores can survive in improperly canned or preserved foods and produce a potent neurotoxin under anaerobic (low oxygen) conditions.

In the context of food preservation and safety, understanding the heat resistance of various bacteria is crucial. Clostridium botulinum's ability to withstand heat makes it particularly concerning in food processing, where adequate temperature control is essential to inhibit its growth and toxin production.