Which arrangement describes bacteria that cluster in groups resembling grape clusters?

• A. Strepto
• B. Diplo
• C. Staphylo
• D. Cocci

Answer: (C)

The cluster of grape-like groups is described by the term staphylococcal. The prefix staphylo- signals a grape-like arrangement because the bacteria divide in multiple planes and stay attached, forming irregular, bunchy clusters of spheres. This contrasts with other patterns: strepto- refers to chains formed when cells divide in one plane and remain in a line, diplo- means paired cells, and cocci just means the cells are spherical in shape without specifying how they group after division.