What type of bacteria is described as spiral or corkscrew shaped?

The type of bacteria described as spiral or corkscrew shaped is indeed categorized as spirilla. This morphology allows spirilla to exhibit unique movement, often resembling a corkscrew, which can be particularly advantageous for navigating through viscous environments. Their spiral shape can enhance mobility, enabling them to move more effectively through liquids, such as mucus or other bodily fluids. This characteristic is significant in understanding how these bacteria may cause infections or interact within their environments, illustrating the importance of their structure in both pathogenicity and ecological roles.

In contrast, staphylococci are round-shaped bacteria that typically form clusters, bacilli are rod-shaped, and cocci refer to any spherical bacteria which can appear in chains or clusters. Each of these other forms relates to different methods of movement and arrangement, but they do not share the corkscrew structure that defines spirilla. Understanding the specific shapes and characteristics of bacteria plays a crucial role in microbiology and helps in identifying and treating various bacterial infections effectively.