There are three basic shapes of bacteria: coccus, bacillus, and spiral. Based on planes of division, the coccus shape can appear in several distinct arrangements: diplococcus, streptococcus, tetrad, s...There are three basic shapes of bacteria: coccus, bacillus, and spiral. Based on planes of division, the coccus shape can appear in several distinct arrangements: diplococcus, streptococcus, tetrad, sarcina, and staphylococcus. The bacillus shape can appear as a single bacillus, a streptobacillus, or a coccobacillus. The spiral shape can appear in several forms: vibrio, spirillum, and spirochete.
This page discusses anthrax, a disease caused by Bacillus anthracis, affecting both livestock and humans through spore inhalation. The severity is linked to bacterial toxins, but early antibiotic trea...This page discusses anthrax, a disease caused by Bacillus anthracis, affecting both livestock and humans through spore inhalation. The severity is linked to bacterial toxins, but early antibiotic treatment and antitoxin antibodies can be effective. Research suggests mutant forms of protective antigens may serve as potential vaccines and treatments. The existing vaccine uses a weakened strain of the bacteria, and genetic variation among anthrax strains aids in outbreak tracking.
