Biology:Cording (mycobacterium)

Cording, in mycobacteriology, refers to a tendency of some mycobacterium (especially M. tuberculosis) to grow end to end, giving them a rope or cord-like appearance when viewed on a stained slide through a microscope. This growth pattern is due to cord factor, a glycolipid, and contributes to the virulence of the organism.

References

1. "Diagnostic Bacteriology: A Study Guide," Margaret A. Bartelt, 2000, F.A. Davis Company.