What shape or type of bacteria is spiral-shaped or curved?

Spirilla refer to a specific type of bacteria that are characterized by their spiral or curved shape. This distinct morphology allows spirilla to move in a corkscrew motion, which can be advantageous for navigating through viscous environments, such as mucus in the human body. The spiral shape can also be beneficial for their survival and adaptation in various ecological niches.

While cocci are spherical, bacilli are rod-shaped, and vibrios are comma-shaped or curved but not as extensively spiraled as spirilla, it is the spirilla that are distinctly known for their spiral form. This classification is rooted in how the bacteria's shape influences their movement and interaction with their environment, further establishing the importance of recognizing the proper terminology and classifications in microbiology.