Definition

A type of thin, rod-shaped bacteria that need oxygen to live and can cause diseases like tuberculosis and leprosy.

Example

Mycobacterium tuberculosis is the bacteria responsible for tuberculosis.

Conversation

Did you know that mycobacterium can cause serious diseases like tuberculosis?

Yeah, I read something about that recently. It's pretty scary.

Exactly! It's fascinating how such small bacteria can have such a big impact.

For sure! We really need to be aware of these kinds of pathogens.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Mycobacterium → It is formed from "myco-" (from Greek "mukon", meaning fungus) and "bacterium" (from Greek "bakterion", meaning small rod). The word refers to a type of bacteria that has a fungal-like structure or characteristics.

Memory Tip

Think of 'myco-' meaning fungus and 'bacterium' meaning small rod, which helps you remember that mycobacterium refers to a type of bacteria with a structure similar to fungi.

Visually Confused Words