Which of the following best describes the shape of bacilli bacteria?

Bacilli bacteria are best described as rod-shaped organisms. This characteristic morphology is one of the primary ways bacteria are categorized. The term "bacillus" actually derives from the Latin word for "little rod," highlighting the importance of this shape in identification. Bacilli can exist as single rods, in pairs, or in chains, but their defining feature is their elongated structure, which can be beneficial for mobility and nutrient absorption. Understanding the shape of bacilli is essential in microbiology for distinguishing them from other bacterial shapes, such as cocci, which are round, and spirilla, which are spiral-shaped. This knowledge also plays a vital role in identifying specific types of bacteria in clinical and environmental settings.