What term describes spherical bacteria that grow in pairs and can cause diseases such as pneumonia?

The term that describes spherical bacteria growing in pairs is "diplococci." This classification is derived from the Greek words "diplo," meaning double, and "coccus," meaning berry, which is indicative of the bacteria's appearance under a microscope. Diplococci are known for causing various diseases, including pneumonia, and are characterized by their round shape and tendency to cluster in pairs.

Understanding bacteria morphology is crucial in microbiology, particularly in identifying pathogens in clinical settings. The term "bacilli" refers to rod-shaped bacteria, while "spirilla" refers to spiral-shaped bacteria. "Cocci" is a broader term that encompasses all spherical bacteria, but it does not specify their arrangement, such as pairs. Thus, "diplococci" is the most specific and accurate term for these bacteria that grow in pairs.