The presence of opportunistic bacteria most likely helps maintain homeostasis in the intestines by - A. preventing overgrowth of harmful bacteria B. converting probiotics into nutrients for growth C. increasing the population of beneficial bacteria D. decreasing competition for resources in the intestines

The correct answer is A. preventing overgrowth of harmful bacteria.<br /><br />Opportunistic bacteria are bacteria that are normally present in the intestines but can cause infections if they multiply excessively. These bacteria help maintain homeostasis in the intestines by preventing the overgrowth of harmful bacteria. They do this by competing for resources such as nutrients and space, which helps to keep the population of harmful bacteria in check. This prevents the harmful bacteria from becoming dominant and causing infections.