9

CHAPTER

139

Classification

of Microorganisms

It is uncanny how a stranger can be at a large family gathering and be able to pick
out who belongs to Mom’s family and who belongs to Dad’s family. Although
no two people at the gathering look the same, there are enough similarities among
some for the unbiased observer to deduce a relationship.
Scientists group together microorganisms much the same way as a stranger
can group family members together. That is, scientists carefully observe micro-
organisms and classify them into groups based on similar characteristics.
In this chapter, you’ll learn how to use scientific techniques to organize microor-
ganisms into standard classifications based on a microorganism’s characteristics.

Taxonomy: Nothing to Do with the IRS

Organisms have traits that are similar to and different from other organisms.
Scientists organize organisms into groups by developing a taxonomy. Taxonomy
is the science of organisms based on a presumed natural relationship.

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