However,
in Clostridium difficile the exosporium often lacks the gap that separates the spore coat from the exosporium
which is observed in Bacillus cereus and Bacillus anthracis spores .
Although the exact role of the exosporium is not completely understood,
previous studies with C. sporogenes suggest that the exosporium may have a role in germination,
outgrowth and attachment.
While the proteinaceous spore coat provides protection for the spore,
the exosporium is the first point of contact of the spore with its environment.
When conditions in the environment become favourable,
the dormancy of bacterial spores is broken,
germination occurs and cell multiplication recommences.