The scientific naming and classification of bacterial species use a structured system for precise global communication. This standardized approach prevents confusion and ensures clarity, providing a universally recognized identity for each bacterial species. Without such a system, the immense diversity of bacteria would be nearly impossible to discuss or study effectively. This systematic nomenclature underpins all microbiological research.
The Standardized Naming System
Bacterial species are named using binomial nomenclature, a two-part scientific name. This system consists of a genus name followed by a specific epithet, together forming the species name. For example, Escherichia coli identifies the genus Escherichia and the species coli.
Scientific names for bacteria are Latin or Latinized words, treated as Latin regardless of their origin, and always italicized when written. The genus name’s first letter is capitalized, while the specific epithet is lowercase. Once fully written, the genus name can often be abbreviated to its initial, such as E. coli for Escherichia coli, provided no other genus shares that initial.
The Governing Bodies of Bacterial Nomenclature
The International Committee on Systematics of Prokaryotes (ICSP) establishes and maintains bacterial naming rules. This global body ensures consistency and order in classifying prokaryotes, including bacteria and archaea.
The authoritative rulebook governing bacterial scientific names is the International Code of Nomenclature of Prokaryotes (ICNP), previously known as the International Code of Nomenclature of Bacteria. This Code outlines the principles and rules for naming taxa, promoting stability and preventing ambiguity. An international body and code are necessary to provide a stable, unambiguous system for naming microorganisms, which facilitates effective communication and collaboration among scientists across different countries.
Understanding Bacterial Name Origins
Bacterial names often originate from various sources, providing clues about the organism’s characteristics, discovery, or habitat. Many honor scientists, such as Salmonella after Daniel Salmon, Escherichia after Theodor Escherich, or Solibacillus kalamii after Indian President A.P.J. Abdul Kalam, honoring his contributions as an aerospace scientist.
Other names describe a bacterium’s observable characteristics, like shape or color. Staphylococcus combines “staphylo” (grape-like cluster) and “coccus” (spherical shape), while aureus (golden) refers to its golden colonies. Names can also indicate the bacterium’s typical habitat or the disease it causes. The specific epithet coli in Escherichia coli refers to the colon, its common habitat. Disease-causing bacteria are often named directly for the illness, such as Mycobacterium tuberculosis or Vibrio cholerae.
The Process of Naming and Reclassifying Bacteria
When a new bacterial species is discovered, its naming and formal recognition follow a rigorous process outlined in the ICNP. For a new name to be validly published, it must appear in the International Journal of Systematic and Evolutionary Microbiology (IJSEM), the official international forum for new prokaryotic names.
A critical requirement for valid publication is the designation and deposition of a “type strain” in at least two public culture collections in different countries. This living culture serves as the permanent reference for the scientific name. Reclassification of existing bacteria occurs when new genetic or phenotypic evidence emerges, indicating a need to adjust their taxonomic position. Such reclassifications can lead to name changes or the creation of new genera or species.