Pathogenic bacteria can be
a. motile.
b. rods.
c. cocci.
d. anaerobic.
e. all of the above.

Verified step by step guidance

1. Understand the characteristics of pathogenic bacteria, which are bacteria that can cause disease.
2. Recognize that pathogenic bacteria can have various shapes, such as rods (bacilli) and cocci (spherical).
3. Identify that motility is a feature of some bacteria, allowing them to move, often using structures like flagella.
4. Acknowledge that some pathogenic bacteria can survive and grow in environments without oxygen, making them anaerobic.
5. Conclude that pathogenic bacteria can exhibit all of these characteristics, making option 'e. all of the above' a comprehensive choice.

Key Concepts

Pathogenic Bacteria

Pathogenic bacteria are microorganisms that can cause disease in a host organism. They can invade tissues, evade the immune system, and produce toxins, leading to various infections. Understanding the characteristics of these bacteria is crucial for diagnosing and treating infections.

Bacterial Morphology

Bacterial morphology refers to the shape and structure of bacteria, which can be classified into several categories, including cocci (spherical), bacilli (rod-shaped), and spirilla (spiral). The morphology of bacteria can influence their motility, pathogenicity, and the immune response they elicit.

Oxygen Requirements

Bacteria can be classified based on their oxygen requirements: aerobic bacteria require oxygen for growth, while anaerobic bacteria thrive in environments devoid of oxygen. Some pathogenic bacteria are anaerobic, which allows them to survive in oxygen-rich environments of the host, complicating treatment options.