Bacterial Shapes Quiz

Cocci (Spherical)

• Single (Coccus): Represents individual, spherical bacteria.
• Diplococcus: Refers to a pair of spherical cells.
• Tetrad: Describes a formation of four spherical cells in a square arrangement.
• Sarcina: Characterizes groups of eight spherical cells forming a cube-like structure.
• Streptococcus: Denotes chains of spherical cells linked together.
• Staphylococcus: Identifies clusters of spherical cells resembling grape-like formations.

Bacilli (Rod-shaped)

• Single (Bacillus): Indicates individual, rod-shaped bacteria.
• Diplobacillus: Signifies pairs of rod-shaped cells.
• Streptobacillus: Refers to chains of rod-shaped bacteria aligned in a row.
• Palisades: Describes rod-shaped cells positioned side by side, giving a fence-like appearance.
• Coccobacillus: Represents short and thick rod-shaped cells, bridging cocci and bacilli forms.

Other Shapes

• Spirochete: Denotes long, thin, helical-shaped bacteria, known for their flexibility.
• Spirillum: Characterizes long, thin cells with a wavy, curly shape rather than a helical structure.
• Vibrio: Refers to rod-shaped bacteria that exhibit a distinct curved or comma-like shape.