Which bacteria are spherical in shape?

Cocci are the term used to describe bacteria that have a spherical shape. This classification is part of a broader system for categorizing bacteria based on their physical characteristics, particularly their shape. Cocci can exist as single cells or can arrange themselves in various formations, such as pairs (diplococci), chains (streptococci), or clusters (staphylococci). Understanding these classifications is vital in microbiology, as different shapes can be associated with different types of infections and the way bacteria behave in various environments.

In contrast, bacilli refer to rod-shaped bacteria, while spirilla are characterized by their spiral shape. Spore-forming is not a shape classification but refers to bacteria that can produce spores to survive in unfavorable conditions. Hence, the correct identification of cocci as spherical bacteria is essential for both academic understanding and practical applications in fields like healthcare and environmental science.