SOME FALLACIOUS TENDENCIES IN BACTERIOLOGIC TAXONOMY

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Abstract
Bacteriology still suffers for the lack of a satisfactory classification and nomenclature. This is thought to be due to the failure of bacteriologists to agree upon suitable criteria in definitions of taxonomic groups. Use of habitat is particularly criticized as inapplicable to identification of living organisms and the increased tendency to its use in recent taxonomic efforts is deplored. It is suggested that the attempt to settle taxonomic problems by committee action is likely to prove futile. A plea is made for definitions of bacterial genera and all larger groupings upon exclusively morphologic (including tinctorial) criteria, reserving for physiologic properties definitions of species, and excluding serologic reactions, particularly agglutination.

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