Coccus vs. Bacillus — What's the Difference?
By Fiza Rafique & Maham Liaqat — Updated on April 28, 2024
Coccus bacteria are spherical, often forming clusters or chains, ideal for thriving in stagnant conditions, whereas bacillus bacteria are rod-shaped, facilitating mobility and environmental adaptation.
Difference Between Coccus and Bacillus
Table of Contents
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Key Differences
Coccus bacteria are characterized by their spherical shape, which influences their arrangement in clusters like staphylococci or chains like streptococci. On the other hand, bacillus bacteria have a rod-like shape that allows them to exist singly or in chain formations.
The shape of coccus bacteria limits their mobility, leading to their prevalence in more static environments where mobility is less beneficial. Conversely, the rod shape of bacillus bacteria aids in their movement and colonization in diverse environments.
Coccus bacteria typically reproduce by binary fission, maintaining their shape as they divide along their membranes. Bacillus bacteria also reproduce through binary fission but can generate endospores, allowing them to withstand harsh conditions.
In terms of pathogenic potential, many coccus bacteria are known to cause skin infections and pneumonia. Bacillus bacteria, however, are notable for their role in food poisoning and anthrax, showcasing a different aspect of bacterial threats.
Coccus and bacillus bacteria also differ in their optimal growing conditions, with cocci often preferring higher moisture environments, while bacilli can thrive in drier and less nutrient-rich settings.
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Comparison Chart
Shape
Spherical
Rod-shaped
Arrangement
Clusters or chains
Single or chains
Mobility
Limited
Higher due to shape
Reproduction
Binary fission
Binary fission and can produce endospores
Typical Environments
High moisture, less mobility required
Diverse, including dry and nutrient-poor
Compare with Definitions
Coccus
Commonly associated with human infections.
Streptococcus pneumoniae can lead to pneumonia.
Bacillus
Facilitates greater mobility due to its shape.
The rod shape of bacillus helps it move in fluid environments.
Coccus
Reproduces by binary fission.
During reproduction, a coccus cell divides to form two new cells.
Bacillus
A type of bacteria that is rod-shaped.
Bacillus cereus is known for causing food poisoning.
Coccus
A type of bacteria with a spherical shape.
Streptococcus is a coccus that often causes throat infections.
Bacillus
Thrives in diverse environments.
Bacillus species can be found in soil, water, and air.
Coccus
Found in clusters or chains depending on species.
Staphylococcus aureus forms clusters resembling grape bunches.
Bacillus
Can exist singly or in chains.
Bacillus anthracis forms long chains of rods.
Coccus
Adapts well to stagnant environments.
Coccus bacteria thrive in environments without much fluid movement.
Bacillus
Known for forming endospores.
Bacillus subtilis can form spores that resist extreme conditions.
Coccus
A bacterium having a spherical or spheroidal shape.
Bacillus
Bacillus (Latin "stick") is a genus of Gram-positive, rod-shaped bacteria, a member of the phylum Firmicutes, with 266 named species. The term is also used to describe the shape (rod) of certain bacteria; and the plural Bacilli is the name of the class of bacteria to which this genus belongs.
Coccus
Any approximately spherical bacterium.
Bacillus
Any of various bacteria, especially a rod-shaped bacterium.
Coccus
One of the carpels or seed-vessels of a dry fruit.
Bacillus
Any of various rod-shaped, spore-forming, aerobic bacteria of the genus Bacillus that often occur in chains and include B. anthracis, the causative agent of anthrax.
Coccus
One of the separable carpels of a dry fruit.
Bacillus
Any of various rod-shaped, spore-forming aerobic bacteria in the genus Bacillus, some of which cause disease.
Coccus
A genus of hemipterous insects, including scale insects, and the cochineal insect (Coccus cacti).
Bacillus
Any bacilliform (rod-shaped) bacterium.
Coccus
A form of bacteria, shaped like a globule.
Bacillus
Something which spreads like bacterial infection.
Coccus
Any spherical or nearly spherical bacteria
Bacillus
A variety of bacterium; a microscopic, rod-shaped vegetable organism.
Bacillus
Aerobic rod-shaped spore-producing bacterium; often occurring in chainlike formations; found primarily in soil
Common Curiosities
How do bacillus bacteria typically reproduce?
Bacillus bacteria reproduce through binary fission and can form endospores.
Are coccus bacteria mobile?
Coccus bacteria generally have limited mobility due to their shape.
How do coccus bacteria arrange themselves?
They can arrange in clusters or chains, depending on the species.
What is the basic shape of coccus bacteria?
Coccus bacteria are spherical in shape.
What are some common diseases caused by bacillus bacteria?
Bacillus bacteria can cause diseases like anthrax and food poisoning.
What infections are commonly associated with coccus bacteria?
Infections like skin infections, sore throats, and pneumonia.
What is a common habitat for bacillus bacteria?
Bacillus bacteria can thrive in a variety of environments, including soil and water.
Can coccus bacteria form endospores?
No, coccus bacteria do not form endospores.
What allows bacillus bacteria to survive harsh conditions?
Bacillus bacteria can produce endospores, which are resistant to extreme conditions.
Do both coccus and bacillus bacteria reproduce by binary fission?
Yes, both types of bacteria reproduce by binary fission.
Which type of bacteria is typically more mobile?
Bacillus bacteria are typically more mobile due to their rod shape.
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Written by
Fiza RafiqueFiza Rafique is a skilled content writer at AskDifference.com, where she meticulously refines and enhances written pieces. Drawing from her vast editorial expertise, Fiza ensures clarity, accuracy, and precision in every article. Passionate about language, she continually seeks to elevate the quality of content for readers worldwide.
Co-written by
Maham Liaqat
