Which bacteria is responsible for both food poisoning and gas gangrene?

Clostridium perfringens is the correct answer because it is a well-known bacterium that can cause both food poisoning and gas gangrene. This organism is part of the normal flora of the intestine but can become pathogenic in certain circumstances.

In terms of food poisoning, C. perfringens is associated with the consumption of improperly stored or cooked meats and is known to produce an enterotoxin that leads to gastrointestinal symptoms like diarrhea and abdominal cramps.

Regarding gas gangrene, this bacterium can invade deep tissue after trauma or surgery, leading to the necrosis of tissue and production of gas in the affected areas. This condition is severe and can lead to significant morbidity or mortality without timely intervention.

The other options, while also significant in their respective areas, do not share both characteristics. For example, Clostridium botulinum is primarily known for causing botulism, a type of food poisoning but not gas gangrene. Staphylococcus aureus is notorious for various infections, including food poisoning, but does not cause gas gangrene. Salmonella species are primarily associated with foodborne illness and gastrointestinal infections, rather than gas gangrene. Hence, Clostridium perfringens is unique in its dual role in both