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Definition of Facultative

Facultative: 1. In general, not obligatory but rather capable of adapting to different conditions. The opposite of facultative is obligate.
2. In bacteriology, bacteria that can grow under either aerobic or anaerobic circumstances (with or without oxygen).

Source: MedTerms™ Medical Dictionary
http://www.medterms.com/script/main/art.asp?articlekey=31986
Last Editorial Review: 4/12/2004

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