The Classification of Prokaryotes in Bergey's Manual of Systematic Bacteriology

Question

The classification of prokaryotes in Bergey's Manual of Systematic Bacteriology is largely based on
A) Gram stain reaction.
B) habitat.
C) type of electron receptor used in cellular respiration.
D) rRNA sequences.
E) cellular morphology.

Accepted Answer

The classification of prokaryotes in Bergey's Manual of Systematic Bacteriology is largely based on rRNA sequences, which reflect the evolutionary relationships among different species. This method provides a more accurate classification than previous methods based on cellular morphology, habitat, or Gram stain reaction, as rRNA sequences are more conserved and reflect the true evolutionary history of the organisms. The type of electron receptor used in cellular respiration is an important metabolic characteristic of prokaryotes, but it is not the primary basis for classification in Bergey's Manual.