Which of the following is NOT a characteristic of mesophiles?

Mesophiles are microorganisms that grow best in moderate temperature ranges, typically between 20°C and 40°C. This optimal temperature range allows them to thrive in environments where human activity is prevalent, such as the human body, making them significant as human pathogens.

The characteristic that states mesophiles thrive in extreme heat is not accurate. Mesophiles are not adapted to survive in extreme temperatures; rather, they function best under conditions that are neither too hot nor too cold. This distinguishes them from thermophiles, which are the organisms that prefer and thrive in high-temperature environments.

Therefore, stating that mesophiles thrive in extreme heat contradicts their biological characteristics and growth requirements, confirming that this option accurately reflects an incorrect attribute of mesophiles.