Notes on the characterization of prokaryote strains for taxonomic purposes

TLDR

Taxonomy of prokaryotes depends on interrelated processes of characterization, classification, and nomenclature, with classification driven by characterization data and nomenclature governed by the Bacteriological Code, yet the latter two fields are dynamic and largely unregulated, leading to frequent changes over the past five decades. This article outlines key elements of prokaryotic characterization and highlights common pitfalls in taxonomic studies.

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.