Which bacteria are spherical in shape?

Question

Which bacteria are spherical in shape??  
A. Clostridia  
B. Bacilli  
C. Spirilla  
D. Cocci

Accepted Answer

Correct Answer: (D)Cocci. 
Rationale: Bacteria that are spherical in shape are called cocci.Bacterial morphology (shape) is a primary characteristic for classification. The three most common shapes are: spherical (cocci), rod-shaped (bacilli), and spiral (spirilla). Cocci (singular: coccus) can exist singly, in pairs (diplococci), chains (streptococci), clusters (staphylococci), or other arrangements. Their round shape is a result of their cell wall structure and the pattern of cell division.A) ClostridiaClostridia refer to bacteria of the genus Clostridium (e.g., C. tetani, C. botulinum). These are rod-shaped (bacillus), Gram-positive, anaerobic bacteria known for forming endospores. They are not spherical.B) BacilliThe term "bacilli" (singular: bacillus) specifically describes rod-shaped bacteria. They can be short, long, thin, or thick, but their defining morphology is cylindrical, not spherical.C) SpirillaSpirilla are spiral-shaped or helical bacteria that have a rigid cell wall and move by flagella. Examples include Spirillum and Campylobacter. Some are comma-shaped (vibrios). They are not spherical.D) CocciCocci are spherical bacteria. Examples include Staphylococcus aureus (grape-like clusters), Streptococcus pyogenes (chains), and Neisseria gonorrhoeae (pairs). Their shape is a key diagnostic feature.ConclusionBacterial shape is a fundamental taxonomic trait. The names of the shapes are derived from Latin/Greek: coccus (berry), bacillus (little rod), and spirillum (little coil). Among the options, only "cocci" describes the spherical morphology.

Which bacteria are spherical in shape?

A
Clostridia

B
Bacilli

C
Spirilla

D
Cocci

Bacteria that are spherical in shape are called cocci.

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Which bacteria are spherical in shape?

A Clostridia B Bacilli C Spirilla D Cocci

Bacteria that are spherical in shape are called cocci.

Topic Flashcards

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Related Questions

A
Clostridia

B
Bacilli

C
Spirilla

D
Cocci