Which form of bacteria is known for being rod-shaped?

Bacilli are indeed known for their rod-shaped morphology. This classification of bacteria is based on their shape and arrangement. Rod-shaped bacteria, or bacilli, can exist as single cells, in pairs, chains, or clusters, and they can be identified through various laboratory techniques, including Gram staining.

Understanding the characteristics of bacilli is crucial in microbiology because their shape often has implications for their behavior, how they grow, and their interactions with the environment and other organisms. The term "bacillus" is derived from the Latin word for "stick," underscoring the distinctive shape of these bacteria. This knowledge can be applied in clinical settings to diagnose bacterial infections, as certain diseases are associated with specific bacterial forms.

Other forms of bacteria, such as cocci (spherical), vibrio (comma-shaped), and spirilla (spiral-shaped), possess different shapes and arrangements, which help in distinguishing them during microscopic examinations and in understanding their biological characteristics and pathogenicity.