The prefix that denotes bacteria arranged in chains is “strepto-“. This term is derived from the Greek word “streptos,” meaning twisted or turned.
In microbiology, various prefixes are used to describe the arrangement of bacterial cells. For instance, when bacteria divide but remain attached to one another, they can form different arrangements. When these bacteria form chains, the prefix “strepto-” is used.
On the other hand, if bacteria are grouped together in clusters, the prefix “staphylo-” is employed, indicating a more irregular arrangement. Understanding these prefixes helps in identifying the morphology and grouping of bacterial species, which is crucial for classification and study in microbiology.