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Glite Dictionary
genus Bacillus

genus Bacillus

7.5
A group of rod-shaped bacteria that often help break down dead plants and animals
  • noun
  • /ˈdʒɛnəs bəˈsɪləs/
  • Specialized
translation icon : género Bacillus
  • Scientists discovered a new species within the genus Bacillus that helps decompose organic waste.

Examples

  • The genus Bacillus is known for producing endospores that allow the bacteria to survive harsh conditions.

  • Some members of the genus Bacillus are used commercially for their probiotic properties.

  • The genus Bacillus includes several important species.

  • Many species from the genus Bacillus are used in biotechnology.

  • Scientists discovered a new species within the genus Bacillus that helps decompose organic waste.

  • The genus Bacillus includes several important species involved in the decay of organic matter.

  • Many species from the genus Bacillus are used in biotechnology to promote plant growth.

Surface Forms

genus Bacillus singular
genera Bacillus plural

Morphology

genus + bacillus

The meaning is directly compositional: 'genus' (a biological rank) combined with 'Bacillus' (a rod-shaped bacterium) yields the taxonomic group containing Bacillus species. An average B1 learner who knows both constituent words can infer this sense, and the taxonomy logic is cross-linguistically familiar, supporting transparency.

Etymology

Genus Bacillus comes from Latin: the word bacillus means 'little rod' and genus means 'group'. Scientists used this name because these bacteria look like tiny rods or sticks, so the name refers to a group of rod-shaped bacteria.