What does sarcinae refer to in bacterial morphology?

Sarcinae specifically refers to a unique arrangement of cocci bacteria that form in packs or clusters that typically resemble a cube shape. This morphology is a result of the way cocci divide in multiple planes. When cocci divide in three perpendicular planes, they can remain attached after cell division, leading to the formation of these distinctive cube-like arrangements. This is distinct from other arrangements such as clusters or chains, where the organization is based on different division patterns. Understanding this morphology is important in microbiology as it can help in the identification and classification of bacteria during laboratory practices.