SPIRILLA Meaning and
Definition
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Spirilla is a plural noun that refers to a group of bacteria characterized by their spiral or helical shape. These bacteria belong to the phylum Spirochaetes and are further classified into the order Spirochaetales. The term "spirilla" derives from the Latin word "spiralis," meaning coil or spiral, which accurately describes their distinctive appearance under a microscope.
Spirilla bacteria are unique due to their corkscrew-like structure. They have long, flexible cell bodies that twist in a spiral manner, giving them a distinctive appearance when observed through a microscope. These bacteria move by rotating or flexing their bodies, which enables them to propel themselves in liquid environments.
Many species of spirilla are free-living, found in various aquatic environments such as freshwater, seawater, and even in soil. However, some species of spirilla are known for causing diseases in both humans and animals. For instance, the bacterium Treponema pallidum, which causes syphilis in humans, is a spiral-shaped spirochete.
The study of spirilla bacteria is relevant to medical and environmental sciences. Researchers investigate their physiology, behavior, and genetic characteristics to better understand their role in the spread of infectious diseases and their impact on ecosystems. Additionally, the unique structure and movement patterns of spirilla serve as a valuable model for studying locomotion and motility in microorganisms.
Common Misspellings for SPIRILLA
Etymology of SPIRILLA
The term "spirilla" is derived from the Latin word "spiralis", meaning "coiled", which itself comes from the Latin verb "spīrāre", meaning "to breathe". The word "spirilla" is used in biology to refer to a group of bacteria characterized by their spiral or coiled shape.
Similar spelling words for SPIRILLA
- sporulation,
- sprawl,
- spurlin,
- Spruill,
- spirula,
- spiral,
- spirillum,
- sproull,
- sproles,
- sprawly,
- Spruell,
- Spurling,
- sparling,
- sprowl,
- sparely,
- sporulate,
- sproul,
- spirulidae,
- Sperling,
- spirally,
- Spurlock.
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