What type of bacteria grows best at temperatures between 50°-110°F?

Mesophilic bacteria thrive best in moderate temperature ranges, specifically between 68°F (20°C) and 113°F (45°C). This category of bacteria is most commonly associated with food spoilage and can proliferate in environments that fall within the specified range of 50°F to 110°F. This temperature range is significant in food safety because it provides ideal conditions for many pathogens and spoilage organisms to grow, leading to increased risks of foodborne illnesses.

Psycrophilic bacteria, by contrast, prefer colder temperatures, typically below 68°F, which makes them unsuitable for the ranges provided in the question. Thermophilic bacteria prefer much higher temperatures, generally above 113°F, thriving in environments like hot springs and compost heaps. Acidophilic bacteria, on the other hand, are not defined by temperature but by their preference for acidic environments, further showing why they do not fit the context of the question. Understanding these categories highlights the need for proper temperature control in food handling to prevent bacterial growth, particularly from mesophilic species.