Which bacteria are rod-shaped and among the most common disease-causing forms?

Which bacteria are rod-shaped and among the most common disease-causing forms?

• A. Cocci
• B. Bacilli
• C. Spirilla
• D. Diplococci

Answer: (B)

Rod-shaped bacteria are called bacilli. This shape is a cylinder-like form that sets them apart from cocci, which are spherical, and from spirilla, which are spiral. Bacilli include many disease-causing genera, so they’re among the most common pathogenic forms. Their elongated shape can help with adhesion and movement, and some bacilli form endospores that let them survive tough conditions, contributing to their persistence as pathogens. So, when describing rod-shaped, often disease-causing bacteria, bacilli is the best fit.

Rod-shaped bacteria are called bacilli. This shape is a cylinder-like form that sets them apart from cocci, which are spherical, and from spirilla, which are spiral. Bacilli include many disease-causing genera, so they’re among the most common pathogenic forms. Their elongated shape can help with adhesion and movement, and some bacilli form endospores that let them survive tough conditions, contributing to their persistence as pathogens. So, when describing rod-shaped, often disease-causing bacteria, bacilli is the best fit.