Production of a neurotoxin that binds to target sites on spinal cord neurons responsible for inhibiting skeletal muscle contraction is a characteristic of...

The production of a neurotoxin that binds specifically to sites on spinal cord neurons involved in inhibiting skeletal muscle contraction is a key characteristic of Clostridium tetani. This bacterium, which causes tetanus, produces a potent neurotoxin called tetanospasmin. This toxin interferes with neurotransmitter release at inhibitory synapses within the central nervous system, disrupting normal muscle contraction regulation and leading to the characteristic spasms and rigidity associated with tetanus.

Clostridium botulinum, on the other hand, produces a different toxin that inhibits the release of acetylcholine at the neuromuscular junction, leading to flaccid paralysis, which is distinct from the symptoms caused by C. tetani. Bacillus cereus primarily associates with food poisoning and does not produce a neurotoxin affecting muscle contraction in the same manner. Streptococcus pneumoniae is primarily recognized for causing respiratory infections and does not produce neurotoxins that affect muscle control. Therefore, the unique neurotoxic action of Clostridium tetani makes it the appropriate answer in this context.