Microbial Taxonomy Classification Quiz

Taxonomy and Microbial Classification

• Taxonomy groups microorganisms based on shared characteristics.
• Identification, classification, and naming are the three fields of taxonomy.

Prokaryotes vs. Eukaryotes

• Prokaryotes and eukaryotes belong to different taxonomic groups.

Mold vs. Yeast

• Molds (multi-cellular) and yeasts (unicellular) are classified in separate groups.

Phenetic Approach

• An old method with seven techniques based on observable traits.

Natural Classification

• Relies on similarities, differences, and evolutionary relationships of organisms.
• Synonymous with the phylogenetic approach, reflecting a taxonomic hierarchy.

Phylogenetic Method

• Focuses on the evolutionary history of organisms.
• Enhanced accuracy through molecular technology.
• Aims to establish natural bacterial classification and understand bacterial evolution.

Phenetic Classification

• Organizes organisms by shared phenotypic traits without considering evolutionary relationships.
• Components include molecular structure, physiology, and habitat.

Objectives of Phenetic Classification

• Identification of unknown organisms for naming purposes.
• Prediction of organism properties based on existing data.

Comparison of Classification Methods

• Phenetic classification prioritizes accurate affinities and practicality; easier to verify.
• Phylogenetic classification focuses on evolutionary relationships; verification is challenging without specific techniques.

Steps in Phenetic Classification

• Collecting and purifying strains.
• Characterizing strains and estimating numerical similarities.
• Arranging strains based on observed relationships.

Serology

• Examines plasma serum to identify antibodies and their quantities.

Antigens

• Substances that trigger antibody production upon introduction to an animal.
• Example: Microbial structures like flagella, capsules, and cell walls can act as antigens.

Key Scientists in Microbial Classification

• Linnaeus: Two-Kingdom Classification (1753) - Animal and Plant Kingdoms.
• Haeckel: Three-Kingdom Classification (1866) - added Protist Kingdom.
• Whittaker: Five Kingdom Classification (1969) - Monera, Protista, Plantae, Animalia, Fungi.
• Woese: Proposed three domains (1977) - Bacteria, Archaea, Eukarya.

Pure Culture

• Derived from a single organism or colony of the same species.

Phylogenetic Tree of Life

• Domains classified hierarchically:
  • Domain: Earth
  • Kingdom: USA
  • Phylum (Division for Bacteria): Arizona
  • Class: Maricopa County
  • Order: Phoenix
  • Family: City within the Valley
  • Genus: Street
  • Species: Home.