Which microbiological form is spiral or corkscrew in shape?

Spirilla are a type of bacteria characterized by their spiral or corkscrew shape. This distinctive morphology allows them to maneuver effectively in various environments, particularly in viscous substances such as mucus or water. The spiral structure can aid in motility, enabling them to navigate through fluids with ease.

In contrast, cocci are spherical bacteria, which means they lack the spiral structure and have rounded shapes. Bacilli are rod-shaped bacteria, also differing significantly from the spiral form. Fungi, on the other hand, encompass a broader category of organisms, including molds and yeasts, which have various shapes but do not specifically exhibit the spiral morphology associated with spirilla. Thus, understanding these differences highlights why spirilla represent the correct choice for bacteria with a spiral or corkscrew shape.