Which microbial species can cause gas gangrene?

Gas gangrene is primarily caused by species of the Clostridium genus, particularly Clostridium perfringens. This bacterium is known for producing gas due to fermentation of sugars from host tissues, leading to tissue necrosis.

While Bacteroides fragilis does contribute to infections, it is typically associated with abscesses and soft tissue infections rather than gas gangrene. The other choices listed, such as Clostridium difficile (which is known for causing antibiotic-associated diarrhea), Fusobacterium nucleatum (often linked to periodontal disease), and Propionibacterium acnes (associated with acne), do not have a direct link to gas gangrene.

Therefore, the choice pertaining to gas gangrene should be related to the specific Clostridium species that produces the gas and toxins responsible for the condition.