Bacteriology is a branch of microbiology that is concerned with the study of bacteria (as well as Archaea) and related aspects. It's a field in which bacteriologists study and learn more about the various characteristics (structure, genetics, biochemistry and ecology etc) of bacteria as well as the mechanism through which they cause diseases in humans and animals.This has allowed researchers in the field to not only get a better understanding of bacteria and their characteristics (for identification and classification purposes etc), but also how to prevent/treat/manage diseases caused by these organisms.This field has also allowed researchers to identify some of the benefits associated with these organisms leading to their application/use in various industries.
Morphology and Gram staining are two of the most important systems when it comes to bacteria classification. With regards to morphology, bacteria are classified into three major categories including Cocci (spherical in shape), Bacilli (rod-shaped), Spiral, and Vibrio which is comma-shaped.Different types of bacteria can also be classified based on their respective growth requirements.Whereas some bacteria need oxygen for energy, others reproduce and grow well in areas with no or very little oxygen levels in their environment. While some can tolerate changes in the level of oxygen in their environment, others either strictly prefer the presence or absence of this gas for growth and reproduction