Diplokokeja

Diplokokeja is a term used in microbiology to describe a specific arrangement of bacteria. It refers to spherical bacteria, known as cocci, that are found in pairs. Each pair consists of two cocci that are in close contact and often appear to be joined at one side. This arrangement is distinct from other common coccal arrangements like streptococci (chains of cocci) or staphylococci (grape-like clusters).

The formation of diplococci arises from the way certain bacteria divide. After undergoing binary fission, the daughter cells do not immediately separate, but remain attached in a paired configuration before eventually dispersing or forming other arrangements depending on the species. This characteristic arrangement can be a useful diagnostic clue for identifying certain types of bacteria. For example, Neisseria gonorrhoeae, the bacterium responsible for gonorrhea, and Streptococcus pneumoniae, a common cause of pneumonia and meningitis, are often observed as diplococci.

The morphology of bacterial cells, including their arrangement, is typically determined through microscopic examination of stained samples, such as Gram stains. The shape and arrangement of bacteria are fundamental characteristics used in their classification and identification. Therefore, recognizing diplococci as a specific bacterial arrangement is an important aspect of basic bacteriology and clinical microbiology.