Journal article

Publication year: 2010

Pages: 249-266

Journal: International Journal of Systematic and Evolutionary Microbiology

Volume number: 60

Issue number: 1

ISSN: 1466-5026

eISSN: 1466-5034

Open access status: Green

DOI Link: https://doi.org/10.1099/ijs.0.016949-0

Publisher: Microbiology Society

Abstract: 
Taxonomy relies on three key elements: characterization, classification and nomenclature. All three elements are dynamic fields, but each step depends on the one which precedes it. Thus, the nomenclature of a group of organisms depends on the way they are classified, and the classification (among other elements) depends on the information gathered as a result of characterization. While nomenclature is governed by the Bacteriological Code, the classification and characterization of prokaryotes is an area that is not formally regulated and one in which numerous changes have taken place in the last 50 years. The purpose of the present article is to outline the key elements in the way that prokaryotes are characterized, with a view to providing an overview of some of the pitfalls commonly encountered in taxonomic papers.

Harvard Citation style: Tindall, B., Rosselló-Móra, R., Busse, H., Ludwig, W. and Kämpfer, P. (2010) Notes on the characterization of prokaryote strains for taxonomic purposes., International Journal of Systematic and Evolutionary Microbiology, 60(1), pp. 249-266. https://doi.org/10.1099/ijs.0.016949-0

APA Citation style: Tindall, B., Rosselló-Móra, R., Busse, H., Ludwig, W., & Kämpfer, P. (2010). Notes on the characterization of prokaryote strains for taxonomic purposes.. International Journal of Systematic and Evolutionary Microbiology. 60(1), 249-266. https://doi.org/10.1099/ijs.0.016949-0