Occurs in almost all aerobically respiring organisms and serves to protect cells from the toxic effects of hydrogen peroxide. Its accumulation in prespore cells affords the spores protection from oxidation during prolonged dormancy. Required for normal developmental timing, possibly through a regulatory role in differentiation and morphogenesis. 2 H2O2 = 2 H2O + O2 Thermostable. Still active after heating at 65 degrees Celsius for 15 minures. Expressed initially during formation of apical tips in aggregates, accumulates rapidly during terminal cell differentiation, and peaks at about 21 hours. Expressed only in prespore cells. By srfA, in response to late development signals. Belongs to the catalase family.