Bacteria knowledge
Many shapes for bacteria
Bacteria are classed by shape, feeding method, metabolism and wall features. Different forms of cells can be observed under the microscope. Cocci (from the Greek berries) are round in shape; when clustered together, they are called staphylococci, while when gathered into chains they are called streptococci. Rod-like prokaryotes are called bacilli. Bacilli can usually be found as separate cells, but sometimes they can be found in pairs (diplobacilli) or chains (streptobacilli). Other bacteria are bent in shape or look like a squat spiral. The former are called vibriones, while the latter are called spirilla. Finally, bacteria that look like a long and flexible spiral are called spirochetes. Spirochetes include some “giant” bacteria that can be up to 0.5 mm long, i.e. 500 times bigger than an ordinary prokaryote cell.
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