In yoghurt production, the optimal ratio of cocci (e.g., Streptococcus thermophilus) to rod-shaped bacteria (e.g., Lactobacillus delbrueckii subsp. bulgaricus) is 1:1. This balance is crucial for proper acidification, texture development, and flavour formation during fermentation. Deviating from this ratio may impact the sensory and functional properties of the yoghurt.