Characteristics like slender, branched hyphae, spore formation, gram positive, production of antibiotics are associated with –

Correct option is D

The correct answer is (D) Streptomyces

Explanation:
• Streptomyces is a genus of Actinobacteria (Gram-positive bacteria) that resembles fungi due to its filamentous growth and branched hyphae.
• They are well-known for producing spores (conidia) and are predominantly found in soil.
• A defining characteristic of Streptomyces is their ability to produce a wide range of clinically important antibiotics, such as streptomycin, tetracycline, and chloramphenicol.
• While they look like fungi, they are true prokaryotes.
• Their complex life cycle and morphological differentiation make them unique among bacteria.

Information Booster:
• Streptomyces are responsible for 'geosmin' production, which gives soil its characteristic earthy smell after rain.

Additional Knowledge:
• Xanthomonads (Option A): These are Gram-negative, rod-shaped bacteria known for causing various plant diseases like citrus canker. They do not form hyphae.
• Xylella (Option B): Gram-negative, fastidious bacteria that live in the plant xylem and are transmitted by insects. They cause Pierce's disease in grapes.
• Clavibacter (Option C): A genus of Gram-positive, non-motile bacteria that cause wilts and cankers in plants, but they do not form the extensive branched hyphae characteristic of Streptomyces.