The Original Shape-Shifters!

As we know bacteria comes in all shapes and sizes but what if I told you those shapes are not just fun and odd but they also serve a purpose for the bacteria itself. Shapes that we usually see when studying bacteria are the classic shapes which include coccus which are, bacillus which are rod shaped, and spirochetes which are twisted or curved. 

Image credit - https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/articles/24494-bacteria

I am here to tell you that not only are there MORE shaped but the bacteria can also CHANGE their shape based on the circumstances they are presented with!

Before we get into all the fun shapes and colors we should talk about why. Why do bacteria feel the need to change their morphology?