Question

A microbial ecologist evaluating bacterial survival and adaptive strategies in dynamic environments considers the following statements:(I) Endospore formation under prolonged stress enhances survival without increasing population size.(II) Horizontal gene transfer generates genetic variability by spreading acquired traits without reproduction.(III) Broad bacterial distribution reflects metabolic versatility and physiological adaptability rather than only resistant structures.(IV) Some bacteria involved in nutrient cycling may also function as opportunistic pathogens under specific environmental conditions.Which statements are correct?