What type of bacteria is described as short and rod-shaped?

Bacilli are a type of bacteria characterized by their short, rod-shaped structure. This morphology is distinct and allows for easy identification under a microscope. Bacilli can be found in various environments, including soil, water, and even within the human body, and they play significant roles in processes such as fermentation and decomposition.

In contrast, spirilla are spiral-shaped bacteria, cocci are spherical, and vibrio are comma-shaped. Each of these forms is associated with different genera of bacteria and can lead to various traits and functions within their ecological niches. Understanding these distinctions is crucial for studying microbiology and the role these bacteria play in different processes.