Coccus - Definition and Overview

coccus (plural - cocci) are any spherical or near spherical bacteria. When they are formed in pairs they are known as diplococcus, in beadlike chains as streptococcus, in grapelike clusters as staphylococcus, and in groups of eight as (sarcina)

Some diseases that can be caused by coccus-type bacteria: staphylococci infections, food poisoning, urinary tract infections, toxic shock syndrome, meningitis, gonorrhea, throat infections, pneumonia, and sinusitis.