Bergey’s Manual

Definition

Bergey’s Manual is an essential reference work for the classification and identification of bacteria and archaea. It provides detailed descriptions of bacterial species based on their morphological, physiological, and genetic characteristics.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Bergey's Manual is divided into two primary volumes: Bergey’s Manual of Systematic Bacteriology and Bergey’s Manual of Determinative Bacteriology.
2. The manual employs a phylogenetic approach to classify prokaryotes based on rRNA sequencing data.
3. It includes comprehensive information on prokaryotic taxonomy, aiding in the identification of new bacterial species.
4. First published in 1923, it has undergone multiple revisions to incorporate new scientific discoveries and technological advancements.
5. Bergey's Manual is widely used by microbiologists for academic research, clinical diagnostics, and industrial applications.

Review Questions

• What are the two main volumes of Bergey's Manual?
• How does Bergey's Manual classify prokaryotes?
• Why is Bergey's Manual considered an essential resource in microbiology?

Related terms

Taxonomy: The science of classifying organisms based on shared characteristics.

Phylogenetics: The study of evolutionary relationships among biological entities.

rRNA Sequencing: A molecular technique used to determine the sequence of ribosomal RNA for identifying and classifying organisms.