What shape are cocci bacteria?

Cocci bacteria are characterized by their round shape. This spherical form allows them to group together in various arrangements, such as diplococci (in pairs), streptococci (in chains), or staphylococci (in clusters). The round shape is crucial in microbiology for identifying these bacteria, as it differentiates them from other types, such as bacilli, which are rod-shaped, and spirilla, which are spiral. The shape influences the bacteria's behavior, reproduction, and interaction with their environment, making it a key factor in understanding their biology and pathogenicity.