Which term describes an irregular cluster of cells?

The term "staphylo-" refers to an irregular cluster or group of cells. This term is derived from the Greek word "staphylos," meaning "bunch of grapes," and it is used to describe certain arrangements of bacteria where cells divide and remain attached in clusters after division. This arrangement can be observed in various species of bacteria, like Staphylococcus, which are known for forming these irregular, grape-like clusters.

In contrast, "strepto-" refers to chains of cells, typically occurring when cells divide and remain connected end to end. "Diplo-" describes pairs of cells that result from division, while "sarina-" refers to a specific grouping of cells that are arranged in cubes or packets, often involving a more organized structure. Understanding these terms helps in identifying bacterial morphology and organization, which is critical in microbiological studies and the identification of different bacterial species.