Which covers the cell wall in prokaryotes?

• A. Endospore
• B. Pili
• C. Capsule
• D. Monerans

Answer: (C)

In prokaryotes, an outer capsule can sit outside the cell wall, forming a protective layer often called the glycocalyx. This capsule covers the cell wall in many bacteria and is composed mainly of polysaccharides or proteins. It helps protect the cell from drying out, aids in evading host defenses, and assists in sticking to surfaces or other cells. An endospore is a dormant, highly resistant structure formed inside some bacteria for survival, not a covering of the cell wall. Pili are hair-like appendages used for attachment or genetic transfer, not a general covering. Monerans is an outdated term for prokaryotes, not a structural feature. So the capsule best fits as the covering of the cell wall.