What classification term is used for spherical bacteria?

The classification term for spherical bacteria is "cocci." This term comes from the Greek word "kokkos," meaning berry, which reflects the round shape of these bacteria. Cocci can exist singly or in various arrangements, such as pairs (diplococci), chains (streptococci), or in clusters (staphylococci).

To provide clarity on the other classifications: "spirilla" refers to spiral-shaped bacteria, "bacilli" denotes rod-shaped bacteria, and "vibrio" describes comma-shaped bacteria. Each of these shapes plays a role in how the bacteria function and their ecological niches, but cocci specifically identifies the spherical form. Understanding these classifications is essential in microbiology, particularly in veterinary medicine, as it aids in identifying and treating bacterial infections.