Which of the following best describes bacteria that grow in pairs?

The term that best describes bacteria that grow in pairs is "diplococci." This classification specifically refers to spherical-shaped bacteria (cocci) that divide and remain attached in pairs, resulting in the formation of a species known as diplococci. This is significant in microbiology as the arrangement of bacteria can influence their characteristics, behavior, and how they are treated.

In contrast, bacilli refers to rod-shaped bacteria, while cocci is a general term that encompasses all spherical bacteria and does not specify their arrangement. Streptococci are another type of cocci that grow in chains rather than pairs. Therefore, understanding these specific terms is crucial for accurately identifying bacteria based on their morphology and arrangement.