What is the specific classification given to *Leptospira* regarding their shape and ability to cause disease?
Answer
Pathogenic spirochetes
*Leptospira* are categorized specifically as pathogenic spirochetes. The term 'spirochete' refers directly to their physical structure—being spiral-shaped bacteria capable of movement. The term 'pathogenic' confirms that these particular strains possess the virulence factors necessary to establish infection and cause disease in a host. This classification distinguishes them from other types of bacteria and highlights their inherent danger as disease agents, unlike non-pathogenic relatives within the same morphological group.
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