Clostridia

/klɒˈstrɪdiə/ noun

Definition

Plural of clostridium; a group of rod-shaped bacteria, many of which are capable of forming protective spores.

Etymology

Plural of 'clostridium' from Greek 'kloster' (spindle) and 'idion' (small). Named for their spindle-like shape under microscopes by scientists in the late 19th century.

Kelly Says

Clostridia are ancient survivors—some can form spores that survive boiling, radiation, and extreme conditions for decades, making them nature's most resilient bacteria and a major concern for food safety and medicine.

Related Words

Explore More Words

Get the Word Orb API

Complete word intelligence in one call. Free tier — 50 lookups/day.