Texas State Manicurist Written Practice Exam

Which type of bacteria are arranged in curved lines resembling a string of beads?

1. Cocci

2. Staphylococci

3. Streptococci

4. Diplococci

The correct answer is: Streptococci

The correct answer is that streptococci are the type of bacteria that are arranged in curved lines resembling a string of beads. This characteristic arrangement occurs because streptococci are bacteria that divide along a single plane. When they replicate, they form chains or pairs, which gives them the appearance akin to beads strung together. Streptococci are a type of cocci, which are spherical-shaped bacteria. While cocci can be seen in various arrangements, it is specifically the streptococci that form these chains. In contrast, staphylococci tend to cluster in irregular groups, similar to grapes, while diplococci are typically found in pairs. Understanding these arrangements helps in identifying the type of bacteria and aids in diagnosing infections or conditions caused by them.