What is the shape of a microbe described as 'coccus'?

The term 'coccus' refers specifically to bacteria that have a spherical or round shape. This classification falls under the broader category of bacterial morphology, which describes the structure and form of different types of bacteria. Cocci can exist as single cells, but they may also form clusters or chains, depending on how they divide. Understanding this classification helps in identifying and diagnosing bacterial infections, as the shape of bacteria can influence their behavior, growth patterns, and pathogenicity.

In contrast, the other shapes refer to different forms of microbes: rod-shaped bacteria are termed 'bacilli,' spiral-shaped ones are known as 'spirilla,' and filamentous refers to long, thread-like structures. Knowing these distinctions is essential for microbiology and related fields.