Rod-shaped bacteria
Rod-shaped bacteria
Rod-shaped bacteria, also known as bacilli (pronounced: bəˈsɪlaɪ), are one of the three main types of bacteria based on their shape. The term "bacilli" is derived from the Latin word baculus, which means "stick".
Characteristics
Rod-shaped bacteria are cylindrical and elongated, similar to the shape of a rod. They can exist as single cells, in pairs known as diplobacilli, or in chains called streptobacilli. Some rod-shaped bacteria are capable of movement and possess flagella, whip-like appendages that allow them to swim.
Classification
Rod-shaped bacteria belong to the class Bacilli, which includes both Gram-positive and Gram-negative species. Some well-known genera of rod-shaped bacteria include Escherichia, Bacillus, and Salmonella.
Pathogenicity
Some rod-shaped bacteria are pathogenic, meaning they can cause disease in humans or other organisms. For example, Escherichia coli can cause food poisoning, while Bacillus anthracis is the causative agent of anthrax.
Treatment
Treatment for infections caused by rod-shaped bacteria typically involves antibiotics. The choice of antibiotic depends on the specific bacterium causing the infection and its antibiotic resistance profile.
See also
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