The shape of the Vibrio group of bacteria is:

Appeared in: DSSSB 13 August 2024

Explanation

The term 'Vibrio' is used in microbiology to describe bacteria that have a distinct curved-rod or comma-like shape.
This unique morphology is a primary characteristic used to identify bacteria belonging to the Vibrio genus.
The most clinically significant example is Vibrio cholerae, the bacterium responsible for causing cholera, which is identified by its comma shape and darting motility.

Option B: This describes bacteria that are spiral or helical in shape.
Option C: This describes straight, rod-shaped bacteria, which are known as bacilli. While Vibrio are technically a type of curved rod, 'comma' is the more specific and accurate descriptor.
Option D: This describes bacteria that are spherical in shape, known as cocci.

Clinical Relevance

Nursing practice connection: This is primarily an exam-oriented knowledge point with limited direct bedside application, so retain Bacterial morphology and classification by shape as background academic context rather than a clinical decision trigger.
In a clinical laboratory, identifying the comma shape of bacteria from a stool sample is a critical step for the presumptive diagnosis of cholera, especially during an outbreak.
This rapid microscopic identification allows for the immediate implementation of public health measures and the initiation of life-saving oral or intravenous rehydration therapy for the patient.
What if? If a microscopic examination of a sample revealed 'grape-like clusters of berry-shaped bacteria', the suspected pathogen would not be Vibrio. Instead, it would point towards Staphylococcus aureus, prompting a different diagnostic and treatment path focused on staphylococcal infection.

How to Approach the Question

This is a factual recall question from microbiology.
Identify the key term in the question, which is 'Vibrio'.
Recall the fundamental classifications of bacteria based on their shape: spheres (cocci), rods (bacilli), spirals (spirilla), and curved rods (vibrio).
Directly match the term 'Vibrio' with its classic morphological description, which is 'comma-shaped'.
Confirm the answer by mentally eliminating the other options: Coil corresponds to Spirilla, Rod to Bacilli, and Berry to Cocci.

Concept Tested & Keywords

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E6 Microbiology Essentials Sastry 4e Part 1 p. 35-37

E6 Microbiology Applied AnjuDhir 3e Part 1 p. 54-56

Practise the full DSSSB 13 August 2024

Attempt every question from this paper in a timed mock, then review the full solution for each one.