Which type of bacteria is specifically known to cause pneumonia?

Diplococci are a type of bacteria that exist in pairs and are recognized for playing a significant role in respiratory infections, including pneumonia. Specifically, the bacterium Streptococcus pneumoniae, which is a form of diplococcus, is a primary cause of pneumonia. This group of bacteria can multiply in the lungs, causing inflammation and fluid accumulation, leading to the symptoms associated with pneumonia.

The other types of bacteria listed do have their own classes of infections but are not specifically known for causing pneumonia. For instance, streptococci are indeed linked to various infections, including strep throat, but it is the specific diplococcus that is most commonly connected to pneumonia cases. Spirilla and bacilli are different shapes of bacteria that can cause other diseases and are not predominantly associated with pneumonia. Understanding this distinction is crucial for recognizing how different bacterial shapes and classifications can relate to specific infections in clinical practice.