What is the characteristic morphology of Actinomyces bacteria?

Actinomyces bacteria are characterized by a branching, filamentous morphology. This distinctive structure is similar to that of fungi, which can lead to some confusion in identification. Actinomyces are anaerobic, gram-positive organisms that normally inhabit the oral cavity, gastrointestinal tract, and female genital tract. Their filamentous appearance is due to the formation of long chains of connected cells, which can be visualized under the microscope.

In contrast, spirilla are helical or corkscrew-shaped bacteria, which is not representative of Actinomyces. Cocci refer to spherical bacteria, while bacilli describe rod-shaped bacteria. These forms do not align with the filamentous structure that defines Actinomyces. Therefore, the branching, filamentous morphology is essential for accurately identifying these bacteria and understanding their role in infections, such as actinomycosis, which can arise when the normal flora are disrupted.