Brucella, a Monospecific Genus as Shown by Deoxyribonucleic Acid Hybridization

Abstract

A total of 51 strains (including type, reference, vaccine, and field strains) representing all species and biovars of Brucella formed a single deoxyribonucleic acid-deoxyribonucleic acid hybridization group (S1 nuclease method). Accordingly, we propose that only one species, Brucella melitensis, be recognized in the genus. We recommend that other specific epithets formerly associated with the generic name Brucella be used in a vernacular form for biovar designation (e.g., Brucella melitensis biovar Abortus 1).