The Major Criteria Used in Placing Bacteria into Different Groups

Question

The major criteria used in placing bacteria into different groups is based on differences in
A) cell wall structure.
B) cell membrane permeability.
C) presence or absence of flagella.
D) detergent susceptibility.
E) presence or absence of cytoplasmic membrane.

Accepted Answer

The major criteria used in placing bacteria into different groups is based on differences in cell wall structure. The cell wall is a defining characteristic of bacteria and is important in determining their shape, protection, and ability to survive in different environments. Bacteria can be grouped together based on the composition of their cell wall, such as Gram-positive, Gram-negative, acid-fast, or mycoplasma with no or very thin cell wall. This information is important in determining appropriate treatment strategies for bacterial infections. The other options (B, C, D, and E) are not as commonly used or specific in grouping bacteria.