What is the morphological term for spherical organisms?

Disable ads (and more) with a membership for a one time $4.99 payment

Prepare for the UCF General Microbiology Lab Midterm Exam. Study using flashcards and multiple choice questions, each question has hints and explanations. Get ready for your exam!

The correct term for spherical organisms is "coccus." This morphological classification is used to describe bacteria that have a round shape. Cocci can exist as single cells, but they may also be found in pairs (diplococci), chains (streptococci), or clusters (staphylococci) based on their arrangement during cell division.

Understanding the basic shapes of bacteria is essential in microbiology, as these shapes often help in identifying and classifying different bacterial species. For example, while bacilli are rod-shaped organisms, spirilla are spiral-shaped, and vibrios have a comma-like shape. Recognizing these distinctions is crucial for microbiologists and aids in various applications, including diagnostics and treatment.